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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Lagos Government, Police Dismiss Viral Claims of Bandit Attacks in Eleko, Imota

    The Lagos State Government and the Lagos State Police Command have dismissed viral reports claiming that bandits attacked communities in Eleko, Ibeju-Lekki, and Imota, describing the information as false and misleading.

    The clarification follows panic triggered on Monday after unverified messages circulated on social media alleging armed attacks in parts of the state.

    False Reports Trigger Panic

    According to reports, rumours spread online claiming that armed attackers invaded Eleko and even stormed a primary school in Imota, where pupils were allegedly harmed.

    The claims caused widespread panic, with many parents rushing to schools across different communities to pick up their children over safety concerns.

    Some schools reportedly contacted parents to come for early pickup as a precaution after the messages went viral.

    The situation led to confusion, early closure of schools in some areas, and increased tension in affected communities.

    Local Authorities Refute Claims

    The Executive Chairman of Imota Local Council Development Area dismissed the reports, stating that no attack took place in the area.

    He added that there was no official security alert or report confirming any such incident and urged residents to disregard the claims.

    A school head in Agbowa also clarified that the panic in the area was triggered by an accident, not any security breach or armed attack.

    Police Begin Investigation Into Viral Messages

    The Lagos State Police Command also confirmed that no bandit attack occurred in Eleko or Imota, describing the reports as false.

    Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the command would investigate the origin of the viral messages and videos spreading online.

    “We will analyse the video and make a comment,” she said.

    Authorities urged residents to rely only on verified security updates and avoid sharing unconfirmed information capable of causing public panic.

  • Gospel Singer Adeyinka Alaseyori Calls for Nationwide Prayer Over Rising Insecurity

    Gospel singer Adeyinka Alaseyori has called on Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country following recent cases of child kidnappings, as public concern over insecurity continues to grow across Nigeria.

    The gospel artiste made the appeal in a message shared online on Sunday, urging citizens to respond to the situation with spiritual unity rather than division or blame.

    Call for National Prayer

    Alaseyori said the rising tension and criticism surrounding the handling of abductions should not lead to political disagreements, but rather encourage collective prayer for affected families and security agencies.

    According to her, national healing requires spiritual intervention alongside institutional efforts.

    “So many people are saying the prayer they are praying is not working, but believe me, prayers are working. Don’t let anybody use you for political whatever. From the president to the last person in Nigeria, we need to pray,” she said.

    Appeal for Empathy and Support

    The singer also urged Nigerians to show empathy for security personnel involved in rescue operations, noting the risks they face in efforts to secure abducted victims.

    She stressed that prayer should be seen as a complement to government and security responses rather than a replacement.

    “Those children are your children. They are my children. You can’t say the president and security personnel are not working. Sometimes they are close, and something just covers their eyes—that’s where prayer comes in,” she added.

    Public Reactions and Ongoing Debate

    Her comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians praising her call for unity and faith, while others maintained that stronger accountability and structural reforms are needed to address insecurity.

    The debate reflects ongoing national conversations following repeated abductions across parts of the country, including recent incidents that have heightened public anxiety.

    As discussions continue, the balance between faith-based appeals and calls for government accountability remains a recurring theme in responses to insecurity in Nigeria.

  • NMA Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum Over Abducted Abia Doctor, Threatens Indefinite Strike

    The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State branch, has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies and the governments of Abia and Imo States to secure the immediate release of abducted orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Bonaventure Aguocha, warning of an indefinite strike if action is not taken.

    The warning was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency general meeting held in Umuahia and made available on Monday.

    Doctors Demand Immediate Action

    The association said Dr. Aguocha, a former chairman of the Abia NMA, was abducted on May 24 while travelling to Umuahia from Imo State.

    It described him as a respected medical professional who has contributed significantly to healthcare delivery in both states.

    The communiqué was signed by the NMA Chairman, Dr. Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Dr. Clement Ifenkoronye.

    Strike Threat Over Abduction

    The association warned that failure to secure his release within 24 hours would lead to a total and indefinite strike in Abia State beginning 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2.

    It said the decision became necessary due to what it described as the continued targeting of medical professionals by criminal groups.

    “Doctors have increasingly become targets of assault, harassment, intimidation and abduction by criminal elements,” the communiqué stated.

    Call for Security Intervention

    The NMA called on the Department of State Services (DSS), the Inspector-General of Police, and police commissioners in Abia and Imo States to intensify efforts toward securing the doctor’s release.

    It also urged the governors of both states to mobilise all available resources to ensure his safe return.

    The association warned that failure to act swiftly could undermine confidence among healthcare workers and disrupt medical services across the region.

  • Falana Calls on Tinubu to Extend Forest Guard Initiative to Borno Amid Insecurity Concerns

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Borno State and deploy a high-level Federal Government delegation to the state in response to worsening insecurity.

    Falana made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday, June 1, linking his call to the Federal Government’s recent security intervention in Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Call for Expanded Security Measures

    According to Falana, the Federal Government had already demonstrated urgency in responding to the Oyo incident by sending a high-powered delegation and approving the recruitment of forest guards to strengthen local security support.

    He noted that President Tinubu had also directed the creation of a specialised security unit to aid rescue operations for abducted victims in the South-West.

    Falana argued that similar intervention should be extended to Borno State, where he said insecurity has remained persistent.

    Concern Over Abductions in Borno

    The human rights lawyer said not less than 415 abducted schoolchildren and other citizens were currently in captivity in forests within Borno State, calling for urgent federal attention.

    “In view of the fact that not less than 415 abducted schoolchildren and other citizens are in the illegal custody of bandits and terrorists in unknown forests in Borno State, President Tinubu should also dispatch a high-powered federal delegation to visit the state in solidarity with the people,” he said.

    He also urged the Federal Government to approve the recruitment of forest guards in the state to strengthen local security operations.

    Push for Armed and Trained Forest Guards

    Falana stressed that any forest guard initiative must be backed with proper training and equipment, noting that criminal groups are often heavily armed.

    “The forest guards must be well trained and fully equipped to confront the bandits and terrorists who are armed with AK-47 rifles and other dangerous weapons,” he stated.

    Call for Legal Action Review

    The Senior Advocate also suggested that the Federal Government reconsider ongoing legal action against members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service, following what he described as a policy shift towards forest-based security operations.

    He added that the Attorney-General of the Federation should discontinue the criminal case against the affected individuals in light of the new security approach.

    The call comes amid renewed national debate on how to strengthen internal security architecture and address rising cases of kidnapping across multiple regions in Nigeria.

  • NCDC Warns Nigeria Only 59% Prepared for Possible Ebola Outbreak

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised concerns over the country’s preparedness for a possible Ebola outbreak, disclosing that Nigeria currently stands at about 59 per cent readiness. The warning comes amid renewed Ebola cases in parts of Africa, including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    NCDC Flags Preparedness Gaps

    The Director-General of the NCDC, Jide Idris, made the disclosure during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, noting that a recent nationwide assessment exposed significant gaps in Nigeria’s emergency response capacity.

    He explained that the evaluation examined critical health systems, including isolation centres, emergency operations units, and available medical stockpiles needed in the event of an outbreak.

    “Our latest assessment puts Nigeria’s preparedness level at about 59 per cent. But preparedness is dynamic; you can never be 100 per cent prepared because situations keep changing,” he said.

    State and National Response Efforts

    Idris said teams were deployed across the country to assess readiness levels in collaboration with state health authorities and provide guidance on urgent areas of improvement.

    He noted that while some progress has been made, Nigeria is still not fully prepared to handle a major Ebola outbreak if it occurs.

    “We sent advisers to work with state commissioners and assess their level of preparedness. We are looking at infrastructure, isolation facilities, emergency operations centres, and available stockpiles,” he said.

    Border Security and Entry Point Concerns

    A key concern raised by the NCDC is the vulnerability of Nigeria’s entry points, particularly airports and land borders, which remain potential routes for disease importation.

    According to Idris, the Federal Ministry of Health has issued new protocols to strengthen screening and monitoring at points of entry.

    “Our primary objective is to prevent the disease from entering Nigeria,” he said.

    He added that states with international airports have been classified as high-risk areas due to increased travel flow.

    Porous Borders Remain Major Challenge

    Idris also warned that Nigeria’s porous land borders continue to pose a major risk, as many travellers enter the country through unofficial routes that are difficult to monitor.

    “The biggest challenge remains our porous borders. Not everyone enters Nigeria by air. Many people travel across borders by road and through informal routes,” he said.

    Health officials say ongoing surveillance and preparedness measures remain critical as the country works to strengthen its response systems against infectious disease threats.

  • Harrison Gwamnishu Reacts After Police Invite Him Over Attempted Murder Allegation

    Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu has reacted after receiving an official invitation from the Delta State Police Command over allegations of attempted murder and incitement to terrorism. The invitation requires him to appear before the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Asaba on Thursday, June 4, 2026.

    Police Invitation Details

    The invitation letter, which Gwamnishu shared on his social media pages, stated that he is expected to report to the SCID for questioning over the allegations levelled against him.

    The development has drawn public attention, especially as the activist is known for his involvement in human rights advocacy and court-related interventions across Delta State and beyond.

    Gwamnishu Speaks on Allegation

    Reacting to the invitation, Gwamnishu expressed surprise over the claims contained in the police letter, insisting that he has no case to answer.

    He also suggested that the situation may be linked to what he described as a sustained effort against him by authorities in the state.

    “I returned from court for Oghenemine’s case and the Nigeria Police Force Delta State Command sent me Happy New Letter. Case of attempted murder, incitement to engage in terrorism. I wish to inform everyone that Delta State Police Command have nothing on me and they have been planning massively against me,” he said.

    Public Attention and Ongoing Developments

    The invitation has since generated reactions online, with supporters and observers closely monitoring the situation ahead of his scheduled appearance at the SCID in Asaba.

    The Delta State Police Command has not issued further public clarification beyond the invitation letter at the time of filing this report.

  • Obasanjo Reveals How He Has Managed Diabetes for More Than 40 Years

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has opened up on how he has successfully managed diabetes for more than four decades, stressing that discipline, healthy living and regular medical care remain key to controlling the condition.

    Speaking during a recent public appearance in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo said diabetes is not currently curable but can be effectively managed through proper lifestyle choices and routine health monitoring.

    Obasanjo Shares His Routine

    The former president said he has lived with diabetes for over 40 years and continues to maintain an active lifestyle.

    “I’ve been diagnosed diabetic for more than 40 years. I still manage it. What do I do? I play squash three times a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday whenever I’m around. I watch what I eat. Diet can be exciting; it can be pleasurable. If you eat badly, the consequence can also be bad on you. And then rest,” he said.

    According to him, consistent exercise, healthy eating habits and adequate rest have played a major role in helping him stay healthy despite the condition.

    Call for Early Detection

    Obasanjo also highlighted the importance of routine medical check-ups and early diagnosis, noting that many people avoid health screenings because of financial constraints.

    He advocated for more affordable and accessible screening centres across the country, saying early detection remains one of the most effective ways to manage chronic illnesses.

    The former president explained that many non-communicable diseases should not automatically be viewed as death sentences if they are detected early and managed properly.

    Lifestyle Remains Key

    Obasanjo outlined what he described as the key pillars of diabetes management, including proper diet, adequate rest, regular exercise and consistent medical care.

    He maintained that individuals living with diabetes can continue to lead productive lives if they remain disciplined and follow medical advice.

    His comments have generated discussions online, with many Nigerians praising his commitment to fitness and healthy living, while others pointed to the challenges many citizens face in accessing affordable healthcare and managing long-term medical conditions.

  • Fayose Alleges Oyo Kidnap May Be Plot to Embarrass Tinubu

    Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has alleged that the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu, a claim that has added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the attack.

    Fayose made the allegation on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, where he questioned the timing of events surrounding the kidnapping and the political activities of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

    Fayose Questions Timing of Incident

    According to Fayose, the circumstances surrounding the abduction raised suspicions about possible political motives aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration.

    He argued that Governor Makinde appeared more focused on political activities linked to his party’s nomination process before publicly engaging with the families of the victims.

    “And I want to say to you in Oyo State, I have a strong belief, I may be wrong, that this sometimes can be orchestrated,” Fayose said.

    “The Governor of Oyo State had his nomination, the nomination of his candidate in the face of this abduction. He did not take any action, no steps were taken. It was after all those nominations that he went to the family to visit them.”

    Comparison With Jonathan Era

    Fayose also claimed that the incident was being used in a manner similar to how insecurity became a major issue during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had inherited significant challenges from previous administrations and was making efforts to address them.

    “I can sometimes believe that this was orchestrated in a way, I’m not saying totally, by the government of Oyo State to blackmail President Tinubu,” he added.

    Background to the Abduction

    Armed men riding motorcycles attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School in Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15.

    Police confirmed that an assistant headmaster, Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack. An okada rider was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

    Governor Seyi Makinde later disclosed that 25 students and seven teachers were abducted, while one teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the attackers. Videos circulated online later showed that the teacher was beheaded.

    Makinde’s Response

    Makinde has repeatedly condemned the attack and said the state government was prepared to explore all lawful options to secure the release of the victims.

    Addressing journalists in Ibadan, the governor said the government was willing to listen to the abductors’ demands if it would help secure the safe return of those in captivity.

    He also announced the establishment of an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters to coordinate rescue efforts and provide verified information to the public.

    Meanwhile, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

  • Tinubu Commissions Three Naval Vessels, Hails Navy at 70

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to maritime security and national development as the service marked its 70th anniversary in Lagos.

    The President made the remarks at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, where he also commissioned three naval vessels: NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara.

    Tinubu Praises Maritime Security Efforts

    Speaking as the reviewing officer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the Navy’s efforts in tackling piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, maritime smuggling and other crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.

    He noted that operations against crude oil theft and maritime criminality have helped boost oil production, improve government revenue and strengthen investor confidence.

    “Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country,” Tinubu said.

    He also praised the Navy’s Special Boat Service and expressed confidence that the recent deployment of Nigerian Navy Marines would further enhance security operations.

    Navy Described as Key Security Institution

    The President described the Navy as a critical pillar of national and regional security, highlighting its role in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and supporting economic activities.

    According to him, the effective use of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and enforcement operations has helped eliminate piracy in Nigerian waters while reducing crude oil theft and related crimes.

    “Your theme for this milestone event, ‘Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,’ is not merely a slogan but a proven reality,” he said.

    Tinubu also thanked foreign naval delegations and partner countries for participating in the fleet review, describing their presence as a sign of growing international cooperation in maritime security.

    Commitment to Naval Modernisation

    The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Navy through investments in modern platforms, technology, personnel welfare, training and capacity development.

    He congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, officers, ratings, veterans and families of naval personnel for their service to the country.

    Naval Chief Highlights Progress

    Vice Admiral Abbas attributed the Navy’s recent successes to government support, strategic investments and improved collaboration among security agencies.

    He said the acquisition of modern platforms and enhanced surveillance capabilities had strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and improved efforts against piracy, crude oil theft, sea robbery and illegal fishing.

    The naval chief pledged the continued loyalty of officers and ratings to the Constitution and assured Nigerians that the Navy would remain committed to protecting the nation’s maritime domain.

    Top Dignitaries Attend Event

    Among dignitaries present were Babajide Sanwo-Olu, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, and senior military and security officials.

    Chiefs of Naval Staff from several Gulf of Guinea countries, including Ghana, Benin, Liberia and Sierra Leone, also attended the event.

  • Police Launch Manhunt After Gunmen Kill Two Officers in Anambra

    Two police officers were killed after suspected hoodlums attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Ben Nwankwo, along the Amansea–Ufuma Road on Sunday night.

    The attack, which occurred at about 8:30 p.m., left the government official unharmed but claimed the lives of two police operatives and affected several civilians in the area.

    Police Order Immediate Action

    Following the incident, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, directed all tactical formations and operational units to identify and arrest those responsible within 48 hours.

    The directive was issued during an emergency security meeting held at the State Police Command Headquarters.

    According to the commissioner, the attack represents a direct challenge to the authority of the state and must not go unanswered.

    “I want you to fish out the attackers and the killers of our officers. I demand immediate action to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. I want results,” he said.

    Concern Over Criminal Tactics

    Orutugu expressed concern over intelligence reports indicating that some criminal groups now disguise themselves in police and military uniforms to evade suspicion.

    He warned residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    The commissioner also stressed that criminal elements would not be allowed to continue operating under the cover of darkness.

    “This kind of killing cannot happen under my watch. We must bring the perpetrators to justice and put an end to their activities,” he added.

    Warning to Road Users

    The police chief specifically cautioned motorists travelling along the Amansea–Ufuma Road, describing it as an isolated route that has recently witnessed a rise in criminal activities.

    “The Amansea–Ufuma Road is a particularly isolated route. Commuters and members of the public should exercise caution while using the road, as it has, in recent times, become a den of criminal elements,” he said.

    Security Operations Underway

    The command said intelligence-led operations have already commenced across the state, with security agencies intensifying efforts to track down the attackers.

    Orutugu assured residents that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property and restoring confidence in public safety.

    He expressed confidence that those behind the attack would be apprehended within the timeframe set by the command.