Democracy Under Pressure: Former presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim condemned police teargas on Omoyele Sowore and other protesters in Abuja on June 12, warning Nigeria is sliding toward authoritarianism as citizens demand security and accountability. Protest Crackdown in Abuja: Police disrupted the march toward Eagle Square with close-range teargas, leaving Sowore struggling to breathe before protesters regrouped and continued. Insecurity Hits Daily Life: Woli Agba said kidnapping and insecurity have affected his creativity and productivity, while Defence Minister Christopher Musa (retd.) blamed local informants and community “oxygen” for sustaining banditry and terrorism. Violence in the North: Gunmen killed 17 farmers in Zamfara’s Maradun district, deepening fears for food production as attacks drive farmers away from their fields. Prisoner Transfer: Nigeria confirmed four inmates died in Ethiopia’s AbaSamuel Prison and others are critically ill, as a new prisoner transfer deal moves efforts to repatriate convicted Nigerians. Global Spotlight: UN Secretary-General António Guterres appointed Nigerian Ahunna Eziakonwa as Special Adviser on Africa. Economy & Costs: Foreign VAT rose 83% to N830.47bn in Q1 2026, and crude oil fell to a 3-month low, raising hopes of lower petrol prices. Politics & Dissent: Peter Obi renewed his pledge to release Nnamdi Kanu if elected, while analysts and CSOs marked June 12 with warnings that Nigeria’s democracy is weakening beyond elections.