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Abia governor warns against insecurity and extremism in Democracy Day message
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has issued a stern warning against insecurity and violent extremism, stating that "terrorists and merchants of public anxiety" will not be tolerated in the state. In his Democracy Day address, Governor Otti emphasized the government's commitment to resisting individuals or groups who exploit public fear for personal or political gain. He stressed that the fight against insecurity requires firm and coordinated action, deploying all lawful means to confront terrorism and protect vulnerable populations, especially children. Otti also cautioned against the underlying conditions that enable extremism, urging a confrontation of economic and political misconduct alongside violent crime. He highlighted the importance of denouncing economic and political greed, sectarianism, and other behaviors incompatible with democratic values. Reflecting on Nigeria's democratic journey, the governor called for reflection and recalibration rather than blame, acknowledging public frustration with governance outcomes. Despite the disillusionment, he urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the democratic project, emphasizing perseverance and long-term commitment to national development. Otti also reflected on Nigeria's return to civilian rule, describing the period between 1993 and 1999 as one defined by sacrifice and resilience. He affirmed that democracy, while imperfect, remains the most viable system of governance. The governor further highlighted his administration's eff
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
BreakingSwitzerland has offered to host the potential signing of a peace agreement between the United States and Iran, according to the Swiss foreign ministry. The ministry stated it is actively engaged and in close contact with both countries, supporting efforts for a Memorandum of Understanding to consolidate a truce and de-escalate the conflict. A senior official in President Donald Trump's administration expressed high confidence in reaching an accord soon. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a mediator, announced that an agreement on the text of a peace deal had been reached.
Members of the Take-It-Back Movement in Kwara State staged a peaceful protest in Ilorin, demanding the immediate rescue of residents abducted across various communities and issuing a 72-hour ultimatum to the government. The protesters marched from Tanke Junction to the Government House, highlighting concerns over rising kidnappings and violent attacks in areas like Edu, Patigi, Ifelodun, and Kwara South. Saidu Tsaragi, the Kwara State Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, stated that insecurity has made Democracy Day meaningless for families with loved ones in captivity, citing seven people from Yaashikira and others from Edu, Patigi, and Kwara South still held. He urged Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to rescue the victims or resign. Protesters criticized the government for not prioritizing the plight of abducted residents and failing in its constitutional duty to protect citizens. They warned of escalating actions, including wider mobilization across Kwara State and a call for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity, if their demands are not met within 72 hours. The movement emphasized that the protest is not politically motivated but driven by concern over increasing kidnappings and vowed to return to the Government House if their demands are not met.
The 2026 World Cup is facing a lack of enthusiasm in the United States, with high ticket prices and visa denials for some fan delegations contributing to the subdued atmosphere. Many fans, including former President Donald Trump, have expressed concerns over the cost of tickets, with some exceeding $1,000 for the opening match. Arvin Baines, an England fan, noted that many of his friends decided not to travel due to expenses. Thomas Shaw, another British fan, found it too expensive to attend multiple games despite using loyalty points for his son's ticket. Additionally, official fan delegations from Ivory Coast and Senegal will not be present due to US visa denials, as stated by Julien Kouadio Adonis, president of Ivory Coast鈥檚 National Committee of Elephants Supporters. In New York, local interest appears to be more focused on the Knicks basketball team. However, some anticipate excitement will grow if the US team advances in the tournament. Co-hosts Mexico and Canada are reportedly showing higher levels of enthusiasm.