Morning recap: States defy S’Court on LG autonomy, Umahi demands autopsy in nurse’s death, other top stories
July 17, 2026 7:33 am
Minister of Works, David Umahi
Top headlines in Nigeria Friday morning include growing concerns over the implementation of local government financial autonomy, as many states have reportedly retained control of council allocations one year after the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling.
Also making headlines are the controversy over the death of a nurse at the residence of .
Internationally, US President Donald Trump has announced a new four-year limit on the stay of foreign students.
Autonomy battle: States defy Supreme Court, control N10tn LG allocations
Nurse’s death: Umahi, police fight bid to stop autopsy
The Minister of Works, David Umahi and the Ebonyi State Police Command have demanded an autopsy to unravel the circumstances that led to the death of a 26-year-old nurse, Mary Habila, whose corpse was reportedly found at the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Their demand followed the request by the deceased’s father, Tanko Habila, to the Ebonyi State High Court to withdraw the police investigation into his daughter’s death.
The father also refused to allow an autopsy on her body, insisting that the family did not suspect foul play in her death.
Fake agency scandal: Gbajabiamila sues Adeyemi for N15bn
2027 election: INEC unveils mock presidential poll plan
The Independent National Electoral Commission is considering conducting a comprehensive audit of its electoral technology systems and staging a mock presidential election as part of efforts to strengthen preparations for the 2027 general election.
INEC Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan (SAN), disclosed this on Thursday while receiving the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, during a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Trump limits foreign students to four-year US stay
Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/trump-limits-foreign-students-to-four-year-us-stay/
Saheed is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over two years of experience covering metro, technology, sports, politics, and human-interest stories. He focuses on producing clear, engaging reports across diverse beats. Saheed’s work reflects hands-on newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate and balanced journalism.
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