Two Lost Police Officers Mistaken For Kidnappers Rescued From Mob In Ogun

June 2, 2026

A tragedy was averted in the Kanuyi community of Simawa, Ogun State, after an agitated mob cornered and detained two serving mobile police officers, mistaking them for a gang of kidnappers.

In a statement on Monday by the Ogun State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the officers, who were returning from an official assignment in Sagamu, had lost their way when they were surrounded, subjected to search, and recorded by suspicious community members.

“The clarification became necessary following information received by the Simawa Division on 1st June 2026 at about 11:00 a.m. that two suspected criminals had been apprehended by members of the community.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives were immediately mobilized to the scene, where the individuals were rescued from an agitated crowd and taken into protective custody for proper identification and investigation,” the statement partly read.

Before the arrival of the rescue team, members of the public had reportedly searched the lost officers, photographed them, and recorded videos that were subsequently shared on social media with misleading captions labelling them as criminals.

“While the officers fortunately escaped physical harm, the incident subjected them to needless public suspicion and emotional trauma despite their commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” Babaseyi wrote.

According to the Command’s findings, the officers are attached to a Police Mobile Force Squadron in Lagos State, and had been officially deployed to Sagamu for national duties and were heading back to their base when they lost their bearings.

Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that they were bona fide, serving members of the Nigeria Police Force.

“Verification conducted by the Command confirmed their identities through valid police identity cards, official deployment documents, uniforms, and other service materials.

“Their parent formation also authenticated their status as bona fide members of the Nigeria Police Force engaged in lawful duties,” the statement noted.

While praising the residents for their alertness, the Command warned against jungle justice, pointing out how easily misinformation can lead to the lynching of innocent citizens or security agents.

It also urged the public to exercise restraint and allow security agencies to verify facts before drawing conclusions or publishing damaging content online.

“This incident highlights the challenges and sacrifices security personnel make daily in the discharge of their duties. It also underscores the importance of cooperation between the public and law enforcement agencies in promoting safety, preventing misinformation, and ensuring that innocent persons are not unjustly subjected to public condemnation.

“Members of the public are also advised to rely on verified information from official sources and refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports capable of causing panic, damaging reputations, or undermining public confidence in security operations,” the statement concluded.

What’s Next After Political Parties Submit Their 2027 Presidential Candidates?

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has concluded the phase of the 2027 election cycle that required political parties to conduct and complete their primary elections for the nomination of candidates.

Under the 2027 election timetable released by INEC, political parties were expected to conclude their primaries by 30 May 2026. In compliance with the timetable, most political parties have now selected their presidential candidates and other flag bearers for the 2027 general elections.

However, the completion of party primaries does not automatically settle all electoral issues. Several political parties are currently facing internal disputes, leadership battles, and legal challenges over the legitimacy of their candidates and party structures.

Among the major parties affected are the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party (LP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), where rival factions have produced separate candidates and continue to lay claim to party leadership.

The situation is further complicated by ongoing litigation surrounding parts of INEC’s 2027 election timetable. Although a Federal High Court had previously nullified aspects of the timetable, INEC appealed the ruling, and political parties have continued to operate according to the commission’s schedule while awaiting the outcome of the legal process.

With the primary election deadline now behind them, attention has shifted to the next stages of the electoral process and what political parties must do before campaigns officially begin.

Next Steps After Political Parties Have Named Their Candidates Submission of Candidate Nomination Forms

Following the conclusion of primaries, political parties are required to submit the details of their nominated candidates to INEC through a series of official nomination documents.

These include:

Form EC9
Form EC9A
Form EC9B
Form EC9C
Form EC9D
Form EC9E

The forms contain candidates’ personal particulars, educational qualifications, affidavits, and other information required by law.
According to the INEC timetable, political parties are expected to submit these nomination documents between 27 June and 8 August 2026, depending on the office being contested.

Verification and Review by INEC

After receiving the nomination forms, INEC will review the submissions to ensure compliance with constitutional and electoral requirements.
The commission will examine candidate qualifications, party nominations, and supporting documents before proceeding to the next stage.

Publication of Candidates’ Details

INEC will then publish the personal particulars and nomination information of candidates for public scrutiny.

This publication process is expected to take place between 1 August and 29 August 2026.
The publication period allows political parties, stakeholders, and members of the public to review candidate information and raise objections where necessary through legally recognised channels.

Resolution of Internal Party Disputes

Several political parties still have unresolved leadership and candidate disputes that may ultimately be decided by the courts or recognised by INEC based on existing judgments.

For instance:

Rival factions within the PDP have announced different presidential candidates.
The ADC continues to face disagreements between competing factions.
The Labour Party and SDP are also dealing with leadership and candidate disputes.
Until these matters are resolved, INEC and, where necessary, the courts will determine which faction and candidate are legally recognised.

Official Campaign Period Begins

Once candidate nominations have been processed and published, political parties will be permitted to commence official election campaigns.

Under the current timetable, campaign activities are expected to begin on 19 August 2026.
From that date, presidential candidates and their parties can legally hold rallies, advertise their programmes, engage voters, and begin nationwide campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

What This Means For Political Parties

Although the primary election stage has ended, the race to the 2027 presidency is far from over.
Political parties must now:

Submit nomination documents to INEC.
Resolve pending internal disputes.
Comply with electoral regulations.
Prepare campaign structures and strategies.
Await INEC’s publication and verification process.

For parties currently battling internal crises, the coming months could prove decisive, as court rulings and INEC decisions may ultimately determine which candidates appear on the ballot.

With campaigns set to begin in August 2026, the focus now shifts from party primaries to candidate validation, legal challenges, and nationwide political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Nigeria Police Urge Calm, Warn Against Retaliatory Attacks On South Africans

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned citizens against carrying out retaliatory attacks on South African nationals, businesses, or diplomatic interests in Nigeria following growing concerns over anti-migrant protests in South Africa.

The warning comes amid reports of increasing tensions linked to demonstrations in South Africa calling for stricter immigration enforcement and action against undocumented migrants.

Although no confirmed attacks on Nigerians in South Africa have been officially reported, the police said the advisory followed discussions among security and intelligence chiefs over the situation.

South African authorities have also not confirmed any attacks on foreign nationals but have condemned what they described as “criminal acts” directed at migrants.

In a statement shared on X, senior police spokesperson Aliyu Giwa acknowledged the concerns of Nigerians while urging restraint.

“We recognise the pain and anger caused by recent attacks on Nigerians abroad,” Giwa said.

“As an institution dedicated to protecting Nigerian lives, we understand these concerns deeply,” he noted.

He, however, stressed the need for Nigerians to remain peaceful and allow the government to address the matter through diplomatic and security channels.

“However, this is a time for calm and restraint,” he said, adding that violence would not protect Nigerians abroad and “would only create additional crises”.

According to the police, the Federal Government is actively engaging with the situation.

The statement noted that the issue is being handled by authorities “at the highest levels”.

To prevent any breakdown of law and order, the police disclosed that additional security measures have been deployed around foreign missions, critical infrastructure, and other sensitive locations across the country.

The force warned that any attack targeting South African interests in Nigeria would attract legal consequences.

“Any attempt to target South African nationals, diplomatic facilities, businesses, or other lawful interests within Nigeria will be treated as a criminal act,” the police stated.

The tension stems from recent protests in South Africa, where demonstrators have accused undocumented migrants of placing pressure on public services and contributing to criminal activities. Protesters have called on the government to strengthen immigration controls and enforcement measures.

The demonstrations have largely been organised by a movement known as March and March, which advocates immigration reform and has reportedly called on undocumented migrants to leave South Africa before June 30.

The situation has also prompted concerns across the continent. Several African countries have advised their citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant, while Ghana recently evacuated hundreds of its nationals, citing safety concerns.

The development has revived memories of previous xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which strained diplomatic relations and triggered retaliatory actions in Nigeria, where some South African-owned businesses were vandalised and looted.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to maintaining public safety and urged citizens to remain law-abiding while the government continues diplomatic efforts to address concerns affecting Nigerians living abroad.

Babachir Lawal Quits ADC, Alleges Atiku’s Primary Victory Was Rigged

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing alleged irregularities in the party’s recently concluded presidential primary that produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as its candidate.

Lawal disclosed his decision in a statement shared on his official Facebook page on Monday, stating that he could no longer remain in a party whose primary election process he believed lacked credibility.

Explaining his resignation, Lawal alleged that the party’s primary election was manipulated in favour of Atiku.

“I am exiting the ADC because its just concluded primaries were at all levels massively rigged in favour Kachalla Abubakar Atiku,” Lawal said.

The former SGF further claimed that election results were altered to favour Atiku and his supporters, adding that even where voting reportedly took place, the eventual winners were allegedly replaced.

“Results were just written or rewritten to favour him and his coven. Even where they allowed some semblance of election to hold, the winners were simply replaced with members of his syndicate. In the real sense it was a disgraceful charade,” he said.

Lawal noted that his departure from the party was also driven by his reluctance to remain associated with a political structure he believes could influence future elections in a manner he considers unacceptable.

The resignation follows ongoing controversy surrounding the ADC presidential primary held on May 25, 2026, which saw Atiku emerge as the party’s presidential candidate.

According to the official results, Atiku secured 1,846,370 votes to win the contest, while former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, came second with 504,117 votes. Businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen finished third with 177,120 votes.

The primary process had attracted criticism from some contestants. Before the results were announced, Hayatu-Deen publicly distanced himself from the exercise, raising concerns over alleged vote manipulation and the integrity of the process.

Amaechi also questioned the conduct of the primary, citing alleged irregularities.

However, after a recent meeting with Atiku Abubakar, Hayatu-Deen ruled out challenging the outcome of the election. He said he chose party unity and the broader goal of building a strong opposition platform ahead of future elections over pursuing personal political interests.

Lawal, meanwhile, stated that he would consult with political allies before deciding on his next political move, while maintaining his opposition to Atiku’s presidential ambition.

FCT Teachers Rally Over Oyo Abduction, Demand Stronger Security For Schools Nationwide

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

Teachers under the umbrella of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Wing, on Tuesday staged a solidarity rally in Abuja, calling for improved security for teachers and students and demanding the safe return of victims abducted in different parts of the country.

The peaceful demonstration began at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters and moved through Area 11, attracting teachers, union leaders, education stakeholders, and supporters. Participants carried placards with messages such as “End The Reign of Fear in Our Schools,” “Teachers Deserve Security, not Fear,” and “Kidnapping Has no Place in Education.”

Held under the theme “United for Education, Together for Our Future,” the rally sought to highlight the growing insecurity affecting schools and learning institutions across Nigeria.

According to reports, at least 82 pupils were abducted between May 13 and May 15 during separate attacks in Oyo and Borno states.

In Borno State, 42 pupils were reportedly kidnapped following attacks on schools in Askira Uba and Chibok Local Government Areas on May 13 and 14.

Similarly, in Oyo State, 40 pupils were abducted on May 15 during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area.

The Oyo incident also resulted in the death of a mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, a motorcyclist, and some security personnel involved in rescue operations.

Speaking during the rally, FCT NUT Chairman, Abdullahi Shafa, said the protest was in line with a directive issued by the union’s national leadership.

“We are acting on the directives of the National Headquarters of this union. They instructed us, in every state of the federation, to embark on a solidarity rally in protest against what has happened to our teachers and students in parts of the country,” he said.

Shafa condemned the killing of the teacher and the persistent attacks on educators and learners, describing the situation as alarming and harmful to the country’s education sector.

“A kidnapped teacher in Oyo State was beheaded without any just cause. This was someone who had dedicated his life to imparting knowledge to students, yet that was the fate he met.

“It is touching, horrifying and devastating that a teacher who has committed himself to ensuring that children receive quality education could be killed in such a manner, all in the name of kidnapping and banditry.”

He added, “It is not good for the system. It is not good for the teaching environment, and it is certainly not good for our children.”

The union leader noted that insecurity has created fear among teachers, especially those working in rural communities where educational services are most needed.

“Teachers do not deserve this kind of treatment. Even those who engage in kidnapping should understand that targeting teachers is unacceptable.

“We are spread across every part of this country. Go to any nook and cranny of Nigeria and you will find teachers there,” he stated.

Shafa further warned that attacks on teachers and students threaten access to education, particularly in underserved areas.

“When you resort to kidnapping teachers, you are effectively denying people in the rural areas access to education. That is why we have come out today to show the government that teachers across Nigeria are unhappy with what is happening,” he said.

Describing the rally as a peaceful one-day action, he urged government authorities to take decisive steps to improve safety in schools.

“Our message to the government is simple: be more proactive. Take adequate care of our students and teachers.

“Provide security for them. Construct perimeter fences around schools and improve educational infrastructure so that both learners and educators can operate in a safe environment,” Shafa appealed.

On possible future actions by the union, he said:

“We do not pray that these incidents continue. We are acting based on directives from our National Headquarters.

“Should the situation persist, the union’s national headquarters will issue further directives. For today, however, we have come out for a peaceful protest.”

The rally ended with participants peacefully marching to submit a letter to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, urging authorities to take urgent measures to secure schools, protect teachers and students, and ensure those responsible for attacks on educational institutions are brought to justice.

ASUU Begins Indefinite Strike At Benue State University: What Are The Key Demands

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Benue State University (BSU) branch, has commenced an indefinite, total, and comprehensive strike action.

The decision was announced following a congress meeting of the union held on June 1, 2026, and takes immediate effect. According to the union, the action followed years of engagement with the university administration, Governing Council, and Benue State Government over issues affecting staff welfare and university governance.

In a statement signed by the branch chairman, Dr. Ali Sule Ako, and secretary, Prof. Daniel Chile, ASUU-BSU said the strike would continue until significant progress is made and binding agreements are reached on the matters in dispute.

The union stated:
“The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Benue State University Branch (ASUU-BSU), wishes to inform the general public, particularly students, parents, alumni, stakeholders, and friends of Benue State University, that Congress of the Union, at its meeting held on 1 June 2026, resolved to embark on an indefinite, total and comprehensive strike action.

“This decision was reached after years of sustained engagement with the University Administration, the Governing Council, and the Benue State Government on critical welfare and governance issues affecting staff and the University.

“Unfortunately, these efforts have failed to produce meaningful and lasting solutions.”
According to ASUU-BSU, interventions by the ASUU Zone and the National Executive Council (NEC), including a fact-finding mission and engagements with relevant authorities, failed to produce a formal agreement capable of resolving the outstanding issues.

The union noted that despite these interventions, authorities failed to engage through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Memorandum of Action (MoA) containing clear commitments and implementation timelines.

“Despite these efforts, the Benue State Government, the University Administration and relevant authorities failed to engage the Union through a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Memorandum of Action (MoA) containing clear commitments and implementation timelines.”

It added:
“Instead, the university administration resorted to isolated and uncoordinated payments without any negotiated framework. These actions neither addressed the underlying issues nor provided a credible roadmap for resolution.”

Key Issues And Outstanding Demands Raised By ASUU-BSU

ASUU-BSU outlined several welfare and governance concerns that it says must be addressed before the strike can be called off.

Non-payment Of Pension And Gratuity

The union lamented that many retired staff members have remained unpaid years after leaving service.

“Many retired staff members have remained unpaid for years after retirement. Some have died without receiving their entitlements, while others continue to face severe hardship despite dedicating their productive years to the service of the University. The Union considers this situation unacceptable and contrary to the principles of fairness and social justice.”

Irregular Pension Remittances

The union also expressed concerns over the contributory pension scheme introduced in 2020.

“The contributory pension scheme introduced in 2020 has been plagued by irregular remittances, particularly regarding employer contributions. The failure of Government to consistently provide counterpart funding has created uncertainty and concern among staff, with no satisfactory resolution in sight.”

Outstanding Wage Award and promotion Arrears

The union disclosed that staff members are owed approximately 22 months of wage award arrears.

“5 months were hurriedly paid after the University Administration became aware of the Union’s move towards industrial action.”

ASUU-BSU stated that lecturers promoted since 2018 have largely been denied the financial benefits attached to their promotions.

Incomplete Salary Adjustment Implementation

Other concerns include the incomplete implementation of the Consequential Adjustment to Academic Salaries Agreement (CATA) and unresolved taxation-related matters affecting staff.

Rejection of Senate-Nominated Deputy Vice-Chancellor

The union strongly criticised the rejection of the Senate-nominated Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Ebute Agaba.
“The Union strongly condemns the rejection of the Senate-nominated candidate for Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Ebute Agaba, without any stated reason.

“The subsequent directive for another election, which produced a different candidate, undermines due process, university autonomy, and democratic governance within the institution.”

Conclusion

ASUU-BSU has maintained that the industrial action will remain in force until meaningful progress is achieved and formal agreements are reached on all outstanding issues.

“Consequently, ASUU-BSU has commenced an indefinite, total and comprehensive strike action, which shall remain in force until substantial progress is made and binding agreements are reached on the issues in dispute.”

The union appealed to the Benue State Government, university management, the Governing Council, students, parents, alumni, and other stakeholders to understand the circumstances that led to the strike and support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution.

“We call on the Benue State Government, the University Administration, the Governing Council, students, parents, alumni, and all stakeholders to appreciate the circumstances that have necessitated this difficult but necessary action and to support efforts toward a lasting resolution.”

Peter Obi Picks Kwankwaso, Atiku Search For Running Mate

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, has announced former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

Obi made the announcement on Saturday shortly after being officially confirmed as the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the general election.

The development followed the NDC presidential primary, where Obi emerged as the party’s flagbearer.

Both Obi and Kwankwaso recently joined the NDC after exiting the , citing internal disagreements and prolonged legal disputes within the party.

Political observers believe the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket could significantly reshape the 2027 presidential contest by uniting two prominent opposition figures with strong support bases across different regions of the country.

Obi continues to enjoy widespread popularity among young voters and maintains strong support in the South-East and parts of the South-South, while Kwankwaso remains an influential political figure in Kano and across sections of Northern Nigeria through the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Party leaders expressed confidence that the alliance would strengthen the NDC’s chances in the next presidential election, describing the ticket as a strategic partnership capable of attracting broad national support.

Further details of the party’s campaign plans are expected to be unveiled in the coming months as preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace.

Atiku Consults Stakeholders On Vice Presidential Candidate

Meanwhile, the presidential candidate of the , Atiku Abubakar, has begun extensive consultations across the country as he seeks to select a running mate for the 2027 general election.

According to sources close to the campaign, the search for a vice-presidential candidate is ongoing, with no final decision reached.

Atiku secured the ADC presidential ticket after polling 1,855,787 votes during the party’s primary election, defeating former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, who received 509,397 votes, and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who scored 180,903 votes.

Since the conclusion of the primary, attention within opposition circles has shifted to the selection of a running mate, a move many political analysts regard as one of the most important strategic decisions facing the campaign.

Sources familiar with the process said Atiku is personally leading consultations with key stakeholders across various political blocs and geopolitical zones in Southern Nigeria.

Rotimi Amaechi and Donald Duke Emerge as Leading Contenders

Among the names reportedly under consideration is Amaechi, who finished second in the ADC primary.

Although Amaechi has publicly denied reports that he was offered the vice-presidential slot, insiders within the opposition coalition said his name remains under active consideration.

Supporters of his candidacy argue that he brings significant political experience, having served two terms as governor of Rivers State, alongside a strong political presence in the South-South region.

However, campaign officials are said to be carefully evaluating his public criticism of the primary process and concerns he raised about the conduct of the election.

Another prominent figure being considered is former Cross River State governor Donald Duke, who joined the ADC in January 2026 after leaving the PDP.

Sources within the campaign described Duke as a respected political figure with a strong administrative record and relatively low negative ratings among Southern voters.

Duke governed Cross River State from 1999 to 2007 and is widely recognised for several developmental initiatives undertaken during his tenure.

Nonetheless, some members of Atiku’s camp have reportedly expressed reservations over Duke’s previous public comments questioning Atiku’s repeated presidential ambitions.

South-East Figures Also Under Consideration

Beyond the South-South, Atiku’s team is also considering potential candidates from the South-East, a region viewed as politically significant due to its strong voter mobilisation history.

Sources indicated that consultations involving prominent South-East political figures are ongoing.

One of the names reportedly attracting attention is former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha.

Ihedioha, whose governorship tenure ended following a Supreme Court ruling in 2020, is believed to retain considerable goodwill across the South-East and is viewed by some within the campaign as a candidate who could energise voters in the region while presenting limited political risks nationally.

The search for a running mate follows a pattern established in Atiku’s previous presidential campaigns. In 2019, he selected Peter Obi from the South-East as his running mate under the PDP platform, while in 2023 he chose Ifeanyi Okowa from the South-South.

Current indications suggest the ADC candidate is once again focusing on the South-East and South-South zones, with no signs that the South-West is being considered for the vice-presidential position.

The selection process comes as the party continues to manage an ongoing leadership dispute that has been taken to court, adding another layer of complexity to preparations for the 2027 election.

Civil Servants: 5 Retirement Benefits Of Nigerian Civil Servants

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately stop the practice of placing civil servants on a compulsory three-month pre-retirement leave, clarifying that no such provision exists in the Public Service Rules (PSR).

The directive was contained in a circular dated May 13, 2026, and signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

The circular was addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, heads of government agencies, service chiefs, and other senior public sector officials.

According to the Head of Service, several MDAs have been incorrectly interpreting Public Service Rule 120243 by treating the mandatory three-month notice period before retirement as a leave period, resulting in officers being asked to stop performing their duties ahead of their official retirement dates.

The Office of the Head of Civil Service stated:
“It has come to the attention of this Office that some Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have continued to treat the three-month notice period preceding retirement as a mandatory leave period, contrary to the provisions of the extant Public Service Rules (PSR).”

Under Public Service Rule 120243, officers are required to notify the service three months before their retirement date.

“Officers are required to give three months’ notice to retire from Service before the effective date of retirement.

“At the commencement of three months, Officers should proceed immediately on the mandatory one-month pre-retirement workshop/seminar. For the remaining two months, retiring Officers are expected to take necessary measures to put their records straight to facilitate the speedy processing of their retirement benefits,” it said.

The government explained that the rule outlines three separate obligations rather than a leave entitlement.

“A retiring officer must give three months’ notice before their effective date of retirement. This is a notice requirement, not a leave entitlement.
“During the first month of the notice period, officers must attend an approved MDA-mandated pre-retirement programme.

“During the remaining two months, officers are expected to regularise their service records, pension documentation, and other retirement-related matters to facilitate seamless processing of their benefits,” it added.

As a result, all MDAs have been instructed to:
“discontinue the practice of treating the three-month notice period as compulsory leave and compelling officers to vacate duty based on a non-existent provision, ensure that a retiring officer continues to discharge official responsibilities throughout the notice period, except as otherwise approved, facilitate the timely participation of retiring officers in approved pre-retirement seminars and workshops under MDA-approved programmes and ensure prompt processing and reconciliation of all retirement records, pension documentation, and other entitlements within the stipulated period.”

The circular further directed permanent secretaries, directors-general, executive secretaries, chairpersons of statutory agencies, and chief executive officers of government institutions to ensure strict compliance with the directive and communicate it to all staff across the public service.

Key Retirement Benefits Available To Nigerian Federal Civil Servants

Beyond the recent clarification on retirement procedures, federal civil servants are entitled to a number of retirement benefits under Nigeria’s pension framework.

Monthly Pension Payments

Federal civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) receive retirement benefits through their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA), which are funded by contributions from both the employee and the Federal Government during their years of service. These funds provide periodic pension payments after retirement.
Retirement Savings Account (RSA) Benefits

Upon retirement, eligible civil servants can access their accumulated pension contributions through programmed withdrawals or by purchasing an annuity, depending on the option selected under the Pension Reform Act.
Newly Approved Federal Government Gratuity Scheme

A major development in 2026 is the approval of a new Exit Benefit Scheme for federal civil servants.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a policy granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument. The scheme took effect from January 1, 2026, and applies to eligible officers who have served for at least 10 years.
One-Time Lump Sum Retirement Benefit

Under the newly approved scheme, retirees receive a substantial lump-sum gratuity in addition to their regular pension benefits, providing greater financial security during retirement. The gratuity does not replace existing pension benefits but complements them.
Death and Survivor Benefits

In cases where a retiree passes away, designated beneficiaries or next of kin may access benefits in line with pension regulations and the provisions of the Retirement Savings Account framework.

Mozambique Says 5 Citizens Killed In ‘Xenophobic Attack’ In South Africa

Tosin Onisuuru

June 2, 2026

The Mozambican government has condemned what it described as a xenophobic attack in South Africa that reportedly left five Mozambican citizens dead, adding to growing concerns over a recent wave of anti-immigrant violence targeting foreign nationals in Africa’s most industrialized economy.

Mozambican authorities said they were seeking detailed information from South African officials regarding the circumstances surrounding the deaths and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. The reported killings come amid heightened tensions over immigration in South Africa, where protests and vigilante actions against foreign nationals have intensified in recent months.

The South African government has repeatedly condemned violence against migrants and pledged to prosecute those responsible for attacks on foreign nationals. However, several African governments have expressed concern about the safety of their citizens living in the country.

Earlier this year, countries including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Ghana issued warnings advising their citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant following a rise in attacks linked to anti-immigration protests. Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, also held discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and called for calm as tensions escalated.

The unrest has been fueled by public frustration over unemployment, crime and economic hardship, with some South Africans blaming undocumented migrants for increasing pressure on jobs and public services. Migrant-rights organizations argue that foreigners are being unfairly scapegoated for broader economic challenges facing the country.

Groups such as Operation Dudula, which campaigns against illegal immigration, have been accused by critics of contributing to a hostile environment for migrants, though the organization has denied supporting violence. South African authorities have stressed that while citizens have the right to protest, attacks and intimidation against foreign nationals are unacceptable and will be prosecuted.

Recent incidents have prompted diplomatic interventions from several African governments. Nigeria has begun assisting citizens who wish to return home, while Ghana has sought action through regional and continental institutions following reports of attacks on its nationals.

South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with major incidents recorded in 2008, 2015 and 2019. Human rights groups have warned that the latest tensions risk triggering another cycle of attacks unless authorities act swiftly to protect vulnerable communities and address the underlying causes of anti-immigrant sentiment.

Mozambique said it expects South African authorities to ensure justice for the victims and guarantee the safety of foreign nationals residing in the country. As investigations continue, regional leaders are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that further violence could strain relations between neighboring states and undermine efforts to promote regional integration and cooperation.

NLC Rejects Proposed N100,000 Minimum Wage, Says Workers Need More To Cope With Economic Hardship

Enyosa Favour

June 2, 2026

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the proposed N100,000 national minimum wage being considered by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), arguing that the amount falls short of what Nigerian workers need to survive under current economic conditions.

The position was made known by the NLC spokesperson, Benson Upah, during an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday.

His comments followed remarks by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that state governors were considering a new minimum wage benchmark of N100,000.

Speaking during the Sallah homage to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, AbdulRazaq said governors were already engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to develop a wage structure that balances workers’ welfare with fiscal sustainability.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the governor explained that the proposal was influenced by rising inflation, increasing living expenses, and the growing financial pressure on Nigerian workers.

Responding to the proposal, Upah acknowledged the governors’ efforts but maintained that the suggested amount was inadequate when measured against current economic realities.

“We consider it thoughtful of the Kwara State Governor for proposing this, but certainly, N100,000 falls far below or behind the realistic figure,” he said.

The labour leader pointed to several economic challenges, including the depreciation of the naira, persistent inflation, higher electricity tariffs, rising petrol prices, reduced purchasing power, and the impact of recent tax measures, as reasons workers require a significantly higher wage.

“Given the realities around the exchange rate, inflation, raised tariffs, surge in the pump price of petrol and associated costs, decline in the purchasing power of the average worker, effects of the new regime of taxes on our cost of living, the realistic figure, subject to status quo maintenance, would be N1m,” he stated.

Upah further argued that increased government revenue should make improved worker compensation achievable.

“In light of the earnings by governments, this should not be a big issue.

“Check what is being shared at FAAC. The windfall from the Middle East war has put over N5tn in the treasury. Though this is temporary, it is nonetheless very good for governments,” he added.

The NLC spokesman also stressed the importance of investing in the nation’s workforce, describing workers as the backbone of economic growth and national development.

“Finally, please note that the greatest asset of any nation is its workforce,” he said.

The debate over minimum wage has intensified amid worsening economic conditions following the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira by the Federal Government.

In July 2024, the Federal Government approved a new national minimum wage of N70,000 after extensive negotiations with organised labour.

Before the agreement was reached, labour unions had pushed for a much higher wage, arguing that inflation had significantly eroded workers’ earnings and purchasing power.

Although the government initially proposed lower figures, negotiations eventually led to the adoption of the N70,000 minimum wage, replacing the previous N30,000 benchmark introduced in 2019.

However, labour leaders have continued to insist that the current wage structure is insufficient due to persistent inflation and the rising cost of living.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has continued to indicate elevated food and headline inflation rates, leaving many workers struggling to meet basic household needs despite the wage increase.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has yet to formally submit a proposal on a revised minimum wage framework to either the Federal Government or organised labour.

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