Headline Politics June 20, 2026 Former Councillorship Candidate, Loveth Izekor Appointed SA To AMAC Chairman

Former Councillorship Candidate, Loveth Izekor Appointed SA To AMAC Chairman

An advocate for women empowerment and community development, Hon. Loveth Izekor, who contested to represent the City Centre ward in Abuja Municipal  Area Council (AMAC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as a councillor has been appointed the Special Adviser in Women Affairs to the Area Council Chairman.

The appointment is contained in a letter addressed to her by the Chairman, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu.

Friends and associates have congratulated the new appointee, expressing hope that she will bring her wealth of experience in effectively amplifying the voices of women in the Council.

She was once quoted as saying that her expertise has been honed through training at the Centre for Leadership and Strategic Development. Passionate about inspiring and empowering people, especially younger women, she is the founder of Young Ladies in Politics, an NGO operating across Nigeria, where she provides leadership mentorship.

With a strong background in the banking sector, she brings a unique blend of business acumen and leadership expertise to her new office. 

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration and an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration.

​

Headline Politics June 19, 2026 JUST IN: Tinubu Grants Customs Boss Adewale Adeniyi Final Six-Month Tenure Extension

JUST IN: Tinubu Grants Customs Boss Adewale Adeniyi Final Six-Month Tenure Extension

President Tinubu has granted a final six-month tenure extension to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale  Adeniyi.

 

As Comptroller General of Customs, Adeniyi’s first tenure extension ought to have expired on August 1, 2026.

 

The six-month extension, which will expire in February 2027, is to enable him to consolidate the implementation of the National Single Window and ensure an orderly succession in the service.

 

During the transition period, Adeniyi, working with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Board, will ensure the promotion of eligible officers to the rank of Comptroller of Customs and the compulsory retirement of officers who have attained 60 years of age or have served 35 years.

 

Adeniyi joined the Customs Service after graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University in the late 80s. 

 

He rose through the ranks, becoming Deputy Comptroller in 2012, Comptroller in 2017, Assistant Comptroller General in 2020, Acting Deputy Comptroller-General in January 2023, before his appointment by President Tinubu in June 2023 as the Comptroller General. 

​

Entertainment Headline June 19, 2026 SHOCKING BATTLE!!! FunnyBruno, Mr Odey Fight Over Professional Supremacy, Accuse Each Other of Stealing Jokes*

*SHOCKING BATTLE!!! FunnyBruno, Mr Odey Fight Over Professional Supremacy, Accuse Each Other of Stealing Jokes*

.... _as Gordons, Amb. Wahala dragged in the verbal Fiasco!!_

Two notable MCs and comedians, Funny Bruno and Mr. Odey Jacob popularly known as Odey D Uncommon Comedian are now personalities of public debate following their appearances on' Ybits Oketa's podcast where they both accused each other of stealing and delivering other people's jokes.

Both individuals are popular in Abuja entertainment space and have built large fan bases in their years of thrilling guests at social functions.

They are seen as models and mentors to younger generation of comedians but their recent public fight has caught fans analyse their strength and professional achievements.

In his appearance on the Fire And Ice TalkShow, Mr Odey D Uncommon Comedian faulted the claim by FunnyBruno in which he is accused of stealing joke lines belonging FunnyBruno. 

Responding to the allegation, he spoke in pigin English he said, "Bruno get joke? Go and ask him, him get joke? Him get joke na em e never dey all over Nigeria", he said.

He continued, "I don't steal jokes. The most important thing is, in this life, do your research, carry your materials the way you want to carry it and deliver it. My pattern is different from whoever you're calling", he stated.

While claiming that everyone steals jokes, Mr. Odey said his jokes have been at different occasions delivered at events while he goes ahead to deliver a different thing. He denied allegations of being a problematic person, after falling out with Amb. Wahala and now Bruno.

FunnyBruno has quickly fired back, saying he has never seen Mr Odey demonstrate creativity, saying his jokes are predictable.

"in fact most of the jokes Odey cracks are just mere Twitter cut and join jokes. Memes, just like that. Odey is not a creative comedian since nearly tens years he knew Odey. He equally accused Odey of stealing Gordons joke.

According to him, Mr. Odey cannot perform in big stages where creativity matters, saying Odey has not gone for a talent hunt Spontaneity all his entertainment career. 

"Me and Odey are not on the same level, when it comes to stand up comedy or creativity", he said. 

Rivalry among entertainers is very common in Nigeria, even in the music space where Faze and 2Face for a long time used music to shade each other.

​

Headline June 18, 2026 The National Legislative Awards 2026*

*The National Legislative Awards 2026* 

*HallowMace Africa And Partners Unveil Final Shortlisted Nominees For The July 2026 National Legislative Awards Conferments*

*Theme: Celebrating Distinguished Leadership, Parliamentary Excellence, and Public Service*

ABUJA, NIGERIA. In anticipation of the prestigious National Legislative Award ceremony scheduled for  9th of July 2026 at the NAF Conference Center, Abuja, the HallowMace Africa and its partners have officially released the final shortlisted lists of awardees (Voting Category).

Following a rigorous and transparent process that combined public online voting with extensive consultations with key parliamentary stakeholder groups, including the NASS Press Corps, the Nigerian Conference of Speakers, the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), and the National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum (NASLAF). The Foundation and it's partners are proud to present the outstanding individuals whose legislative impact and service to the nation have earned them this recognition.

These finalists represent the pinnacle of legislative diligence across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

*1. NATIONAL ASSEMBLY: Most Outstanding Lawmakers*

Selected via public voting & NASS Press Corps consultations

*South East*

*Senate:* Sen. Enyinnaya Abariba

*House of Representatives:* Hon. Chike Okafor

*South South*

*Senate:* Sen. Adams Oshiomole

*House of Representatives:* Hon. Inombek Awaji-Abiante

*South West*

*Senate:* Sen. Solomon Olamilekan and Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele (tie)

*House of Representatives:* Hon. Bamidele Salam

*North Central*

*Senate:* Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduanghan

*House of Representatives:* Hon. Jonathan G. Gaza

*North East*

*Senate:* Sen. Muhammed Monguno

*House Of Representatives:* Hon. Ahmadu Usman Jaha

*North West*

*Senate:* Sen. Sunday Katung

*House of Representatives:* Hon. Sada Soli

*2. STATE HOUSES OF ASSEMBLY: Most Outstanding Speakers*

Selected via extensive consultations with the Nigerian Conference of Speakers

*South East*

· Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly

*South South*

· Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly

*South West*

· Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly

*North Central*

· Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly

*North East*

· Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman, Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly

*North West*

· Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu, Speaker, Jigawa State House of Assembly

*Special Recognition /Long Service Achievement Award*

· Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, Speaker, Borno State House of Assembly

*3. Most Outstanding Parliamentary Staff*

Selected via consultations with the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN)

· Dr. Cornelius Ikalumhe (Senate) 

· Mr. Paul Adara Adiwu – (House of Representatives) 

*4. Most Outstanding Legislative Aides*

Selected via consultations with the National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum (NASLAF)

· Hajia Hauwa M. Lamin (Senate) 

· Mr. Agwunobi Peter Anochie (House of Representatives) 

*5. Most Outstanding Parliamentary Reporters*

Selected via consultations with the National Assembly Press Corps

· Oyediya Agwu Nancy Urum (AIT) *Senate*

· Joke Adisa (TVC) – *House of Representatives*

· Comrade Babalola Lukman Laleye (Emporium) - *New Media* 

*Event Details*

*Event:* National Legislative Awards 2026

*Date:* 9th July 2026

*Venue:* NAF Conference Center, Abuja

 *Time:* 4pm

 *Chairman of the Occasion:* 

His Excellency,  Senator Ameh Ebute

President of the Senate

Third Republic. 

 *Special Guests of Honour:* 

His Excellency,  Senator Godswill Akpabio 

President of the Senate

His Excellency,  Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas 

Speaker,  House of Representatives 

His Excellency, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki 

President of the Senate 

9th National Assembly 

*Host:* HallowMace Africa, in partnership with ERGAF Africa, International Goodwill Ambassador Club and IsabellaAyukFoundation (Also in partnership with key legislative support groups)

*A Word From HallowMace Africa And Partners*

"These finalists have demonstrated uncommon dedication to legislative due process, constituency representation, and the advancement of democratic values. We thank the Nigerian public and our media/Parliamentary partners for ensuring a credible selection process. *9th Of July 2026 will be a night of pure legislative honour."*

*Media Accreditation & Inquiries*

Members of the press seeking accreditation for coverage of the July 2026 event should contact the HallowMace Africa public Communications Desk. 

*Signed*

Amb. Oguh Hyginus John

*Head, Public Communications Desk*

HallowMace Africa

*08055414610*

*08036786790*

​

Headline June 17, 2026 INEC Holds Stakeholders Engagement Ahead of Ekiti Guber Polls as Nouvelle Perspective Assures Readiness

​INEC Holds Stakeholders Engagement Ahead of Ekiti Guber Polls as Nouvelle Perspective Assures Readiness 

Days to the governorship election in Ekiti State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has held a meeting with local and foreign observer groups, including Nouvelle Perspective, one of the two accredited foreign observers for the election, along with over 90 observers.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, while addressing the observers, reaffirmed the Commission's readiness to conduct the election and assured stakeholders of its commitment to delivering a credible and transparent electoral process.

According to the Commission, the observation organisations comprise a broad spectrum of civil society groups, professional bodies and institutions with expertise in election observation, governance, human rights, gender advocacy, youth development and peacebuilding.

“The presence of accredited observers is in line with the Commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the electoral process,” the Commission said.

The Commission noted that observer groups play a critical role in enhancing public confidence in elections through independent assessment of procedures and outcomes.

It also urged all accredited organisations to adhere strictly to the guidelines for election observation and to conduct their activities in a non-partisan and professional manner.

Nouvelle Perspective, led by Hon. Jim Okolo, has deployed over 200 ad-hoc staff across the 16 local government areas of the state to monitor the election.

Speaking on the preparedness of Nouvelle Perspective, Hon. Okolo said the organisation was fully ready to undertake a professional and independent observation of the poll in line with international best practices.

He said the deployment of observers across the state was aimed at ensuring comprehensive coverage of the electoral process and providing an objective assessment of the conduct of the election.

According to him, the organisation remains committed to promoting credible elections and strengthening democratic institutions through impartial observation.

“Our team has completed the necessary training and logistics arrangements for the exercise. We have deployed more than 200 ad-hoc personnel across the 16 local government areas of Ekiti State to ensure effective coverage of the election,” Okolo said.

He added that Nouvelle Perspective would conduct its activities in strict compliance with INEC's guidelines and maintain neutrality throughout the process.

“We commend INEC for engaging observer groups ahead of the election and reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, non-partisanship and transparency. Our duty is to independently assess the process and contribute to building public confidence in the integrity of the election,” he said.

Hon. Okolo further called on political parties, candidates, security agencies and voters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law to ensure a successful and credible governorship election in the state.

About 10 members of the organization were present during the INEC briefing, some of whom are Alex Nwankwo,  Nouvelle Perspective electoral Correspondent,  Mrs Loyce Ogueri, the National Program coordinator and others. 

While other members of the INEC team and security agencies that spoke at the event are Mr Temitope Aina, Administrative Secretary,  Mrs Oluwakemi Akomolede, Director National Orientation Agency, CP Abayomi Shogunle, CP Election,  Mrs Nka Obi- Bisong, Director DSS and Alhaji Kekinde Mustapha.

June 17, 2026 SEDC Probe: Accountability Must Not Be Selective, Says Anambra Social Affairs Analyst

SEDC Probe: Accountability Must Not Be Selective, Says Anambra Social Affairs Analyst 

An Anambra-based youth leader, Mr. Alex Nwankwo has spoken on the recent appearance of the Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mark Okoye before the Senate, insisting that the investigative session involving the Commission should not be turned into a platform for political score-settling.

In a statement titled "SEDC, When Accountability Becomes Selective," Nwankwo argued that while public institutions and office holders must be subjected to scrutiny, the standards of accountability must be applied consistently and without bias.

According to him, no one is opposed to oversight or transparency, but concerns arise when accountability appears to be selective and targeted.

"There is an old saying in politics: those who live in glass houses should be careful how enthusiastically they throw stones," he said.

He noted that several political figures now projecting themselves as champions of accountability had themselves occupied positions of authority where they managed substantial public resources, adding that their own records remain open to public examination.

"It is therefore understandable why many citizens find it ironic when political actors whose own stewardship remains the subject of public debate suddenly assume the role of chief prosecutors of others," the analyst stated.

He remarked that the allegation that SEDC under Okoye is paying over N150m in a one-room office space is not correct, noting that the Senate may not have been properly briefed. 

According to him, the office space is a duplex with other facilities, including conference room and training space to help the Commission function more effectively.

Mr. Nwankwo stressed that his intervention was not intended to excuse incompetence but rather to advocate consistency in the application of accountability principles.

"This is not a defence of incompetence. It is a defence of consistency. Accountability must never become selective. Oversight must never become personal. Public hearings must never become political theatre," he said.

He warned that the South East Development Commission, which was established to drive development in the region, was too strategic to be weakened by political controversies.

According to him, regional development commissions across the country are treated as critical institutions and should not become victims of internal political battles.

He expressed concern that recent developments have focused more on confrontations and dramatic exchanges than on the Commission's developmental agenda and project execution.

"Why are confrontations receiving more publicity than development plans? Why are dramatic exchanges receiving more attention than project execution? Why does it sometimes appear that embarrassing officials is becoming more important than helping institutions succeed?" he queried.

The youth leader observed that differing interpretations have emerged regarding the Senate investigative sitting, with some seeing it as legitimate oversight and others viewing it as political positioning and a struggle for influence.

He maintained that regardless of which perception is correct, the existence of such concerns should worry stakeholders because public confidence in institutions is shaped largely by perception.

Nwankwo argued that the issue goes beyond the personality of the SEDC Managing Director, saying the real stake is the future and credibility of the Commission itself.

"The greatest danger is not to Mark Okoye as an individual. The greatest danger is to SEDC as an institution. If the Commission succeeds, the South East wins. If the Commission fails, the South East loses," he stated.

He consequently urged political leaders in the region to prioritise strengthening institutions over generating controversies, stressing that history would judge them by the choices they make.

"The choice before our political leaders is therefore simple: build institutions or build controversies. History will judge them by which option they choose," he added.

​

Headline June 16, 2026 Celebrating a Statesman: INC President Macdonald Igbadiwei Lauded for Courage, Wisdom on Birthday

Celebrating a Statesman: INC President Macdonald Igbadiwei Lauded for Courage, Wisdom on Birthday

Tributes have continued to pour in for the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), High Chief Macdonald Igbadiwei, as he celebrates his birthday, with admirers lauding his sterling qualities, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress of the Ijaw Nation.

In a goodwill message marking the occasion, the renowned Ijaw leader was described as a man of integrity, courage, wisdom, and good conscience whose dedication to justice, unity, and development has earned him widespread respect across the Niger Delta and beyond.

The message noted that Igbadiwei's leadership of the INC has continued to inspire confidence among the Ijaw people, while his commitment to protecting the interests of the ethnic nationality remains unwavering.

According to the well-wishers, the INC President has distinguished himself through selfless service, visionary leadership, and a deep passion for the advancement of the Ijaw Nation, making him a source of inspiration to both the older and younger generations.

They praised his tireless efforts in promoting peace, fostering unity, and championing causes that uplift the welfare and aspirations of the Ijaw people.

"As you mark another glorious year, may God Almighty bless you with sound health, greater wisdom, strength, peace, and many more fruitful years of impactful leadership," the message stated.

The well-wishers further prayed for God's continued guidance, protection, and favour upon the elder statesman, expressing optimism that his wealth of experience and leadership qualities would continue to benefit the Ijaw Nation.

They wished High Chief Macdonald Igbadiwei a happy birthday, long life, prosperity, and many more years of remarkable accomplishments in service to humanity and the Ijaw people.

​