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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Fayose Stands By Claim Linking Makinde to Oyo School Kidnap

    Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has reaffirmed his controversial comments suggesting that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde may have questions to answer over the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Fayose made the remarks during an interview on EKTV, saying he had no regrets over his earlier comments despite the backlash they generated.

    Fayose Refuses to Retract Statement

    Speaking in a mix of English and Yoruba, Fayose said his experience as a former governor informed his position on security matters.

    He maintained that he understood how security challenges should be handled and insisted he was speaking based on his convictions.

    “I stand by what I said about Governor Makinde. I was a Governor too and I handled security issues very well. I used my security very well,” Fayose said.

    His latest comments come days after he alleged that the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area could have been politically motivated.

    Earlier Allegation Against Makinde

    Fayose had made the initial allegation during an interview on Channels Television, where he suggested that the kidnapping incident may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu.

    The former governor argued that the timing of the abduction raised suspicions and questioned whether political interests could be behind the incident.

    His comments generated widespread reactions from political observers and members of the public.

    Tinubu Will Win, Fayose Says

    During the EKTV interview, Fayose also expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s political strength ahead of future elections.

    According to him, politicians seeking to remove Tinubu through political tactics should instead wait for the next election cycle.

    “Anyone who wants Tinubu out should wait until we get to the field and let the votes speak. Tinubu will beat them all silly,” he said.

    He added that using security challenges as a political weapon would not produce the desired outcome.

    Kidnap Crisis Continues

    The controversy comes as concerns continue over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Security agencies have intensified efforts to rescue the victims, while political leaders and stakeholders continue to debate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

  • Accord Party Chairman Hospitalised After Gunmen Attack in Osun

    Asimiyu Ajibola, Chairman of the Accord Party in Osun State, is receiving treatment at the University of Osun Teaching Hospital after surviving a gun attack by suspected assassins in Osogbo.

    The incident occurred late Wednesday night in the MDS area of the state capital, prompting the Osun State Police Command to launch an investigation.

    Police Confirm Attack

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the attack happened at about 11:50 p.m. when two armed men riding a motorcycle opened fire on Ajibola.

    According to the police, the assailants fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

    “Upon receiving the distress report, the police immediately mobilised tactical and conventional teams to the scene,” the statement said.

    “A team of police officers swiftly evacuated the victim to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.”

    Victim Responding to Treatment

    The police disclosed that medical personnel confirmed Ajibola was in stable condition and responding positively to treatment.

    Investigators also recovered exhibits from the scene, which have been sent for forensic analysis as part of efforts to identify those behind the attack.

    The command said operatives have launched a manhunt for the suspects and are working to ensure their arrest and prosecution.

    Commissioner Orders Full Investigation

    Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, condemned the attack and directed relevant units to intensify investigations.

    “He has directed all relevant investigative units to deploy every available resource to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify those responsible, and ensure their prompt arrest and prosecution,” Ojelabi stated.

    The police assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation and appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could aid ongoing efforts.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The attack comes amid growing security concerns across parts of the South-West region.

    On Wednesday, gunmen abducted Olaide John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    A day earlier, gunmen reportedly attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service office in Ogbomoso and carted away a rifle, ammunition and other valuables.

  • CBN Approves Abbey Mortgage Bank’s Conversion to Regional Commercial Bank

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the conversion of Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc into a regional commercial bank, paving the way for the institution to expand its services beyond mortgage banking.

    The approval marks a significant milestone for the bank, which has also completed a corporate rebranding and will now operate as Abbey Bank Plc.

    Bank adopts new identity

    The name change follows resolutions approved by shareholders in January 2025 as part of the institution’s long-term transformation strategy.

    With the new licence, Abbey Bank can now offer a wider range of commercial banking services while maintaining its presence in Nigeria’s financial sector.

    The move is expected to strengthen the bank’s ability to serve more customers and support financial inclusion initiatives across its operating region.

    Expansion and recapitalisation plans

    As part of its transition, Abbey Bank has begun efforts to meet the CBN’s recapitalisation requirement for regional commercial banks, which is set at N50 billion.

    Regulatory filings indicate that the bank has secured approvals to raise additional capital and establish a N100 billion debt issuance programme to support future growth and expansion.

    The institution said the initiative would enhance its operational capacity and support the development of its digital banking ecosystem.

    Strong financial performance

    Recent financial results released by the bank showed continued growth in key performance indicators.

    According to the latest figures, total assets rose to more than N222 billion as of March 2026, while gross earnings and profitability also recorded significant year-on-year increases.

    The conversion places Abbey Bank among financial institutions that have transitioned from specialised banking operations to broader commercial banking models as competition and regulatory expectations continue to reshape Nigeria’s banking industry.

  • Oyo Police Deny Reports of Release of Abducted Oriire Pupils, Teachers

    The Oyo State Police Command has denied reports circulating online claiming that pupils and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area have regained their freedom.

    The command described the reports as false and misleading, urging residents to disregard the viral claims and rely only on official updates.

    Police dismiss viral claims

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said there was no truth in reports suggesting that the victims had been released by their abductors.

    “Oyo Police Command wishes to categorically debunk the viral messages currently circulating across various social media platforms alleging that the pupils and teachers abducted from Ahoro Esiele and Yawota Communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state have been released by their abductors,” the statement read.

    “The Command states unequivocally that the claim is false, misleading, and entirely unsubstantiated.”

    Rescue efforts ongoing

    More than 40 pupils and teachers were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele; and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.

    The incident triggered widespread concern across the state and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and communities.

    According to the police, security agencies remain committed to securing the release of all victims and bringing those responsible to justice.

    “Security operatives are working tirelessly, deploying all available human and operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers, their unharmed reunification with their families, and the apprehension and prosecution of all those responsible for the heinous act,” the statement added.

    Warning against misinformation

    The command cautioned individuals and groups against spreading unverified information capable of causing panic and disrupting ongoing rescue operations.

    Residents were advised to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of security efforts while relying only on information released by the Nigeria Police Force and authorised government agencies.

    The police also urged members of the public to avoid sharing unconfirmed reports on social media as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

  • Obi Defends Adeboye Amid Youth Backlash Over Tinubu Protest Calls

    Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised Nigerian youths attacking the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over claims that he has not led protests against President Bola Tinubu.

    Obi said it was wrong to transfer political responsibilities to the cleric, warning that such narratives could fuel religious tension and division in the country.

    The former Anambra State governor made his position known in a post shared on his 𝕏 handle on Wednesday.

    Warning against divisive narratives

    Obi said some political actors deliberately exploit sensitive issues when they are unable to compete based on ideas, performance, or vision.

    He added that many Nigerians often get drawn into narratives that are designed to create suspicion and disunity among citizens.

    “Today, I see similar efforts emerging again, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways. Narratives are planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause, without recognising the broader agenda behind such campaigns,” he said.

    Defence of Adeboye

    Obi defended Adeboye, describing him as a respected faith leader who has consistently preached peace, unity, and reconciliation.

    He said it was unfair to expect the 84-year-old cleric to take on roles that belong to younger and more politically active citizens.

    “At 84 years of age, it would be unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to transfer to him responsibilities that properly belong to them,” Obi stated.

    Call to young Nigerians

    Obi urged young Nigerians to take responsibility for driving national change, saying the task of reforming the country rests largely on their shoulders.

    He encouraged them to focus on leadership, civic engagement, and constructive political participation rather than allow themselves to be used for divisive narratives.

    The statement comes amid ongoing debates on the role of religious leaders in political discourse and rising public frustration over governance and accountability in Nigeria.

  • DeeOne Emerges BOOT Party House of Assembly Candidate for Lagos Constituency

    Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Aderombi Adedayo Martins, popularly known as DeeOne, has emerged as the Lagos State House of Assembly candidate for Ibeju-Lekki Constituency I ahead of the 2027 general election.

    He secured the ticket under the BOOT Party after winning the party’s primary election held ahead of the polls.

    Primary election victory

    DeeOne took to Instagram on Wednesday night, June 3, to announce his emergence, expressing appreciation to party members for their support during the primaries.

    “I want to thank my party, BOOT Party, for the confidence in voting for me to emerge winner of the primary election for Ibeju-Lekki Constituency I,” he wrote.

    2027 political ambition

    The comedian-turned-politician now joins the growing list of entertainment personalities seeking elective positions in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

    His emergence comes as political parties continue to conclude primaries across various states ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

  • Sunday Igboho Alleges Politicians Back Oyo Kidnappers, Threatens to Expose Sponsors

    Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has alleged that some politicians are backing the kidnappers responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and threatened to expose those involved if the attacks continue.

    He made the claim during a meeting with newly elected executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by Akinteye Babatunde, at his residence in Soka, Ibadan, on Wednesday.

    Igboho claims knowledge of sponsors

    Igboho said he has information about individuals allegedly sponsoring criminal groups operating in parts of the state, insisting that the kidnappers would be defeated if security operatives and local vigilante groups were allowed to operate freely in forest areas.

    “I know the politicians behind them, and if they do not stop perpetrating their evil acts, I will mention them all. The politicians behind them are the ones giving them ammunition and money,” he said.

    Allegations against political actors

    The activist further alleged that some political actors were deliberately creating instability to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “The same thing they did to Jonathan is what they are doing to Tinubu. They want to make the country ungovernable for him. They use propaganda and fake news to discourage supporters of the President,” he stated.

    Claims over rescue efforts

    Igboho also denied reports that he demanded payment from the Oyo State Government before participating in rescue operations, saying he had offered to help flush out kidnappers but was restricted by authorities.

    He claimed that officials informed him kidnappers had threatened to kill abducted victims if he attempted direct intervention.

    “Later, they told me the kidnappers warned that if I forced my way into the operation, they would kill all the children. If they truly want these victims rescued, they should allow my men and me to drive the criminals out of the forests,” he said.

    Background to Oyo abductions

    The controversy follows the abduction of at least 45 pupils during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

    The affected schools include Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School.

    The incident has heightened security concerns in the state, with agencies reportedly intensifying operations around forest corridors linking Oriire communities and the Old Oyo National Park area.

    Reports also indicated that attackers communicated in Yoruba, Hausa and Pidgin English during the assault, while tensions escalated further after one of the abducted teachers was reportedly killed.

    Igboho has continued to advocate for the deployment of his proposed security outfit, the “Iru Ekun Security Network,” insisting it could help tackle criminal groups operating within forests across the South-West.

  • VeryDarkMan Alleges DSS Questioned Activist Livinus Nwosu Over His Name, Claims He Was Listed as PVC Sensitisation Sponsor

    Social media activist VeryDarkMan has alleged that fellow activist Livinus Nwosu was questioned about him during his reported detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).

    In a video shared online, VDM claimed that after Nwosu was released from custody, the activist reached out to him with details of what allegedly transpired while he was being held.

    Alleged questioning over civic campaigns

    According to VeryDarkMan, Nwosu told him that security operatives asked questions about his whereabouts and attempted to find out when he would be returning to Nigeria.

    He further alleged that DSS officials asked Nwosu to write down the names of individuals linked to voter awareness and civic sensitisation campaigns, including his own name and that of popular influencer Tunde Ednut.

    Claims from messages after release

    VDM said the information came from messages he reportedly received from Nwosu after his release from detention, adding that the claims raised concerns about the targeting of civic activists involved in voter education.

    Return to Nigeria and reaction

    The activist also shared details of his planned return to Nigeria, stating that he is not afraid of arrest if authorities choose to invite or question him.

    He maintained that civic sensitisation efforts should not be discouraged, insisting that voter awareness remains essential ahead of future elections.

    Public reaction and wider concerns

    The allegation has sparked fresh debate online, with supporters expressing concern over the treatment of activists involved in voter education, while others have called for caution until official clarification is provided by security agencies.

    As of the time of this report, the DSS has not issued any public response to the allegations.

     

  • Pastor Ibiyeomie Questions Insecurity, Claims Politicians May Be Sponsoring Kidnappers in Nigeria

    Founder of Port Harcourt-based Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, questioning how kidnappers continue to operate despite the capabilities of the country’s security agencies.

    The cleric made the remarks during a recent sermon, where he suggested that the abduction of schoolchildren and other victims may not be random, alleging that powerful individuals could be backing the crimes.

    Allegations of Possible Sponsors

    Pastor Ibiyeomie said the pattern of kidnappings raises suspicion that the perpetrators may be receiving support from influential figures.

    “They are not just picking these children without sponsors. Politicians must be behind it,” he stated.

    He further questioned why security agencies have not been able to effectively track and arrest those responsible, despite what he described as advanced surveillance capabilities.

    Questions on Security Operations

    The cleric expressed doubt over the inability of security agencies to trace kidnappers, arguing that modern technology should make it easier to locate criminals.

    “The DSS can track people, so how come they are not tracking these kidnappers? There must be an invisible hand behind it,” he added.

    He also suggested that the continued success of kidnappers points to deeper systemic issues within Nigeria’s security architecture.

    Public Reactions and Ongoing Debate

    His comments have since generated reactions across social media, with Nigerians divided over his claims. While some agreed with his concerns about insecurity and accountability, others urged caution against making unverified allegations.

    The remarks come amid renewed public anxiety over rising kidnappings and attacks in different parts of the country, including recent incidents involving schoolchildren and teachers.

    Authorities have yet to respond to the specific claims made by the cleric at the time of this report.

  • Activist Livinus Nwosu Alleges DSS Warning After Release Over PVC Sensitisation Case

    Activist Livinus Nwosu has spoken out following his reported release from detention, alleging that he was issued a warning while in custody over his voter sensitisation activities.

    His claim comes days after social media activist VeryDarkMan raised alarm that Nwosu had been picked up by armed men allegedly in connection with his campaign encouraging Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

    Alleged Warning Inside DSS Custody

    Nwosu alleged that while at a Department of State Services (DSS) facility, he was approached by a woman who cautioned him about the risks of continuing his public advocacy.

    According to him, he was told that if he is detained again, he could “disappear” and that his continued civic education activities might attract serious consequences.

    He linked the alleged warning to his ongoing campaigns around voter awareness, governance accountability, and civic participation.

    He was quoted as saying he met a woman at the DSS office who warned him that repeated arrest could lead to severe outcomes if he persists with his activism.

    Background to Detention Claims

    The development follows earlier reports that Nwosu was allegedly taken away by armed men while engaging in voter sensitisation activities in Bayelsa State.

    VeryDarkMan had also amplified concerns online, alleging that the activist was targeted because of his mobilisation efforts encouraging citizens not to sell their votes and to participate in elections.

    Authorities have not publicly confirmed the circumstances surrounding his detention or release at the time of this report.

    Growing Concerns Over Civic Activism

    The incident has added to ongoing debates around civic activism and political participation in Nigeria, particularly as the country moves closer to the 2027 election cycle.

    Activists and supporters have continued to call for transparency from security agencies and protection for individuals involved in voter education and civic awareness campaigns.

    There has been no official response from the DSS regarding the specific allegations made by Nwosu.