- Reps propose 7-year jail term for workplace bribery
- Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to appear in court Tuesday
- Saudi Arabia suspends blockwork Visas for Nigerians, 13 other countries
We have highlighted the five most important developments in the news today, Monday, June 2, and present them below.
5 issues in the news that should matter to you today
1. Reps propose 7-year jail term for workplace bribery: The House of Representatives is deliberating a new bill that proposes strict penalties for bribery in workplaces, including a jail term of up to seven years or a fine of N5 million.
Sponsored by Paul Nnamchi (Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency) and three other lawmakers, the bill targets bribery across both public and private sectors.
2. Niger flood death toll rises to 151 as Northern governors mourn victims: The death toll from the devastating flood that struck communities in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State has climbed to 151, with over 3,000 people displaced.
The flood, triggered by torrential rainfall on Wednesday, May 28, severely impacted the Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities, submerging homes and sweeping away infrastructure, including two bridges.
Northern governors have expressed grief over the tragedy as rescue and relief efforts continue.
3. Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to appear in court Tuesday: Suspended senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, is set to appear in court on Tuesday, June 3, following a summons over alleged defamation charges.
Her lead counsel, West Idahosa (SAN), confirmed her appearance but stated uncertainty over whether the Federal Government plans to formally arraign her that day.
4. NAF doubles allowance, rolls out new welfare package: The Nigerian Air Force has announced a 100% increase in Ration Cash Allowance for its personnel, along with a robust welfare package to enhance morale and operational efficiency.
The initiatives, unveiled by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, also include improvements in housing, insurance, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The announcement was made on Sunday, June 1, during the commissioning of a newly remodelled 160-room ensuite accommodation for airmen at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Lagos.
5. Saudi Arabia suspends blockwork Visas for Nigerians, 13 other countries: Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of blockwork visas to Nigeria and 13 other countries, including six from Africa, in a move to manage foreign labour inflow during the Hajj season.
Other affected African nations include Egypt, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Morocco. The suspension, announced by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening immigration and labour regulations in the Kingdom.