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  • Oyo Police Launch Investigation Into Abduction of Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons in Ibadan

    The Oyo State Police Command has commenced investigation into the abduction of the younger sister of former Minister of Power and APC gubernatorial aspirant, Bayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The victims were kidnapped in the early hours of Wednesday in a case that has drawn renewed attention to rising insecurity in the state.

    Police Begin Investigation

    In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the command said it had launched an immediate investigation into the incident.

    According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police directed the Divisional Police Officer of Challenge Division and other tactical teams to move to the scene shortly after the incident was reported.

    The victim’s vehicle was reportedly recovered at the location where the abduction took place.

    Rescue Efforts Underway

    The police assured residents that all necessary resources had been deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of those responsible.

    It added that investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the abduction and track the perpetrators.

    Residents were urged to remain calm and assist security agencies with any useful information that could support ongoing operations.

    Family Confirms Incident

    Earlier, the family confirmed the abduction through a statement issued by the media aide to Bayo Adelabu, Femi Awogboro.

    He said Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, 43, was abducted at about 7:30 a.m. while taking her twin sons, Peter and Paul, to school in Ibadan.

    The family described the incident as distressing and appealed for public support and prayers.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The incident comes weeks after a separate attack in the Oriire axis of Oyo State, where gunmen invaded communities, killing a teacher and abducting dozens of pupils and teachers.

    Security agencies say rescue operations are ongoing, even as concerns continue to grow over repeated attacks targeting schools and civilians in the state.

  • Gunmen Attack Immigration Office in Ogbomoso, Cart Away Officers’ Firearms

    Gunmen have attacked the Immigration Office in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and carted away firearms belonging to officers on duty during a late-night operation on June 2, 2026.

    The incident occurred at about 10 p.m. at the facility located along the Ogbomoso–Ilorin new expressway, sparking fresh concerns over security in the area.

    Attack on Immigration Facility

    Sources said the attackers stormed the premises while activities were ongoing around the nearby Ayanyan Cattle Market, taking officers by surprise.

    The gunmen reportedly overpowered personnel on duty and dispossessed them of their weapons before escaping into the night.

    No casualties were immediately confirmed at the time of filing this report.

    Police React

    The Oyo State Police Command said it was yet to receive a full briefing on the incident.

    Spokesperson of the command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said updates would be provided once verified information is obtained from the affected unit.

    “I will provide updates as soon as the necessary information becomes available,” he said.

    Authorities are expected to commence investigation into the attack as security operatives move to track those responsible.

  • Court Sentences Four Al-Shabaab Members to Death Over Owo Church Attack

    The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced four members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group to death by hanging for their involvement in the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.

    The judgment was delivered on Wednesday by Justice Emeka Nwite, following their conviction on a nine-count terrorism charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) on behalf of the Federal Government.

    The attack, which occurred on June 5, 2022, left more than 40 worshippers dead and over 100 others injured during a Pentecost service.

    Court Finds Four Guilty

    The convicted persons are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris (20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), and Abdulhaleem Idris (25). They were found guilty of participating in the deadly assault carried out by a terrorist cell operating in Kogi State.

    Justice Nwite ruled that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing that the defendants were active members of the group responsible for the attack.

    He held that their actions directly contributed to the violence that disrupted the church service and caused mass casualties.

    Fifth Defendant Acquitted

    The court, however, discharged and acquitted the fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47), after finding insufficient evidence linking him to the attack.

    The judge said the prosecution failed to establish his direct involvement in the incident.

    Evidence Presented in Court

    During the trial, the prosecution called 11 witnesses and tendered 23 exhibits, including confessional statements and a digital forensic report.

    Among the exhibits admitted was a device said to contain communications between the defendants before and after the attack.

    A surviving Catholic priest also testified, recounting how the attackers detonated multiple explosive devices inside the church, causing panic and heavy casualties.

    Terror Conviction Upheld

    Justice Nwite held that the totality of the evidence clearly connected the four convicts to the attack and justified their conviction on terrorism charges.

    The ruling brings a legal conclusion to one of Nigeria’s most deadly church attacks in recent years.

  • Gunmen Abduct Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons in Ibadan

    Unknown gunmen have abducted Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, the younger sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, along with her 12-year-old twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The abduction occurred on Wednesday morning while she was reportedly taking the children to school.

    Abduction Along School Route

    According to a statement issued by Adelabu’s media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, the incident happened at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026.

    Mrs. John-Paul, 43, was travelling with her twin sons, Peter and Paul, when the gunmen intercepted them and whisked them away.

    The family confirmed the incident and described it as a distressing development.

    Family Speaks on Victim

    The statement noted that Mrs. John-Paul is the youngest of five children of Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu.

    She reportedly retired voluntarily last year from her roles at the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian before relocating to Ibadan with her children.

    According to the family, she was making arrangements to join her husband, Mr. John Paul, in the United States before the incident occurred.

    Security Agencies Launch Investigation

    The family said security and law enforcement agencies were immediately notified after the abduction.

    “We are pleased to confirm that security operatives have swung into action and preliminary investigations have commenced in earnest,” the statement said.

    Authorities are currently working to secure the release of the victims and track down those responsible for the abduction.

    Appeal for Calm

    Chief Adelabu and members of the family expressed confidence in the efforts of security agencies and appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could affect ongoing rescue operations.

    They also called on Nigerians to support the family through prayers and urged anyone with useful information to contact the nearest police station or relevant security agencies.

     

  • Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Lagos Engagements, Oyo Attack Victims Yet to Receive Presidential Visit

    President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after spending the Eid-el-Kabir holiday in Lagos, where he participated in a series of political, governmental and national engagements, amid growing calls for him to visit families affected by the recent terrorist attack in Oyo State.

    The President arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday at about 5:17 p.m. and was received by senior government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu.

    Calls Over Oyo Attack

    Tinubu’s return comes as some Nigerians continue to urge him to personally visit the families of victims of the terrorist attack in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Rather than visiting the affected community, the President had earlier dispatched a high-powered Federal Government delegation led by Ribadu.

    Other members of the delegation included Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe, and Special Adviser on Public Communications Sunday Dare.

    Political Meetings During Holiday

    During his stay in Lagos, Tinubu received Vice President Kashim Shettima and several groups who paid him the traditional Sallah homage.

    Among those who visited were Senate President Godswill Akpabio and members of the Senate leadership.

    The President also hosted members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as well as APC stakeholders from Oyo State, including the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli.

    APC candidates for the House of Representatives and State House of Assembly from Lagos State also met with the President during the holiday period.

    Navy Anniversary, Benin Meeting

    On Monday, Tinubu attended the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic City Waterfront as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.

    The President commissioned three naval vessels, NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara, during the event.

    He also held talks with the President of Benin Republic, Romuald Wadagni, in a meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations, regional cooperation and economic partnership between both countries.

  • Police Arrest Seven Suspected Gunmakers, Uncover Illegal Firearms Factory in Yobe

    The Yobe State Police Command has uncovered an illegal firearms fabrication factory in Potiskum Local Government Area and arrested seven suspected gunmakers during a security operation.

    The suspects were apprehended on Monday during a raid on a blacksmith workshop located at Tasha Adua along Danchuwa Road in Potiskum.

    Police Raid Illegal Firearms Workshop

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim.

    According to the statement, operatives of the Potiskum Area Command, working with officers from the Divisional Police Headquarters, carried out the operation following intelligence reports about the alleged illegal production of firearms.

    “The Yobe State Police Command has recorded another significant breakthrough in its sustained efforts to combat crime and criminality across the state,” the statement said.

    Suspects Arrested, Exhibits Recovered

    Abdulkarim stated that the suspects were arrested at the workshop while various items linked to the illegal fabrication of firearms were recovered during the operation.

    The police spokesperson did not immediately disclose the identities of the suspects but confirmed that investigations were ongoing.

    Command Intensifies Crackdown on Crime

    The police said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal weapons and strengthen security across the state.

    Authorities also assured residents that the command would continue intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and preventing the circulation of illicit firearms.

  • Isaac Fayose Questions Timing of Oyo Kidnapping, Mentions Wike in Viral Video

    Political commentator Isaac Fayose has generated reactions online after questioning the timing of the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State and linking it to political remarks he attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

    Fayose made the comments in a video shared on social media while discussing the abduction incident that occurred in parts of Oyo State.

    Claims Over Political Comments

    In the video, Fayose referenced a statement he claimed was made by Wike against Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

    “Wike said, and I quote, he said, ‘I will put fire in your state, Governor Seyi Makinde, I will put fire in Oyo State,’” Fayose alleged.

    He suggested that the timing of the kidnapping incident and ongoing political activities in the state raised questions that should not be ignored.

    According to him, the attack occurred around a period when political events involving the governor were attracting public attention.

    Questions Over Recent Remarks

    Fayose also referred to comments allegedly made by Wike days after the kidnapping incident, claiming they added to his suspicions.

    “Three days ago, this same Wike mocked Governor Seyi Makinde that shey be, I told you, I will put fire in your state,” he said.

    The commentator argued that the sequence of events warranted closer scrutiny, though he did not provide evidence linking any individual to the attack.

    Calls for Investigation

    Fayose further criticised suggestions that Governor Makinde could be connected to the kidnapping, describing such claims as difficult to comprehend.

    He also referenced past security challenges in Rivers State during Wike’s tenure as governor, arguing that politicians should be held accountable for their public statements.

    “Nigerians, we have to shine our eyes well well. If to say we dey country where law dey work, I’m sure DSS or police for don call Wike now for questioning,” he said.

    Growing Debate

    His remarks have added to the growing debate surrounding the Oyo school abduction, which has attracted national attention and prompted calls for the safe rescue of the victims.

    Neither Wike nor his office has publicly responded to Fayose’s allegations as of the time of filing this report.

  • INEC Opens Investigation Into Alleged Misuse of Voter Data Access in CVR Database

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has launched an investigation into allegations of unauthorised access and misuse of its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) database following reports linked to the alleged exposure of a voter’s personal information.

    The commission disclosed this in a press statement issued on Tuesday by the Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

    Investigation Commences

    INEC said it had commenced a full-scale investigation into the incident to establish how voter information was accessed and disclosed.

    According to the commission, preliminary findings show that the matter involved internal access credentials issued to authorised registration officers during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

    INEC stressed that these credentials are strictly for official use and are withdrawn after the exercise.

    No External Breach Detected

    The electoral body clarified that there was no hacking or external breach of its voter database.

    It explained that preliminary audit findings indicate that the information was accessed using valid internal credentials but released without authorisation.

    “There was no external breach of the CVR database, no hacking incident, and no unauthorised external access to the Commission’s ICT infrastructure,” the statement said.

    INEC added that the incident involved access to a specific voter record and did not compromise the broader voter registration system or the data of over 90 million registered voters.

    DSS Also Investigating

    The commission further disclosed that the Department of State Services (DSS) has commenced an independent investigation into the matter.

    It assured that it would cooperate fully with security agencies and take disciplinary or legal action against anyone found culpable.

    INEC urged the public and media to avoid speculation while investigations continue, promising to update Nigerians once the process is concluded.

    The development comes amid public debate over alleged exposure of voter information linked to a political figure in the Federal Capital Territory.

  • Emeka Ike Threatens Legal Action Against Wike’s Aide Over INEC Data Leak

    Actor and politician Emeka Ike has threatened legal action against Lere Olayinka over the alleged publication of his personal information obtained from the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    Ike made the declaration while reacting to social media posts by Olayinka following the recently concluded House of Representatives election for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the Federal Capital Territory.

    Controversy Over Voter Information

    Olayinka had claimed that Ike was originally registered as a voter in Imo State before transferring his voter registration to the FCT on May 15, 2026.

    In a post shared on X, the media aide questioned the actor’s eligibility to contest in Abuja and attached screenshots that appeared to contain details from an INEC administrative portal.

    The images reportedly displayed Ike’s application number, voter identification details, registration centre, profile photograph and other personal information.

    ‘Height of Political Rascality’

    Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, Ike condemned the publication of the information, describing it as an abuse of access to sensitive records.

    “It’s quite shocking, extreme and it is the height of political rascality for a government officer to access a citizen’s information from the INEC cyber,” he said.

    According to him, the incident raises concerns about privacy and the security of personal data belonging to Nigerian citizens.

    “He is telling every Nigerian that whoever you are, I can pull your information from anywhere and I can do what I want. That rascality needs to be stopped,” Ike added.

    Actor Vows Court Action

    The former House of Representatives candidate said he was prepared to challenge Olayinka over the publication of his personal details.

    “Actions are ready, I’m ready to take him on. He has no right to exploit my privacy and insult Nigerians the way he did. If he has been doing it in the past, this should be the last time he does it,” he stated.

    Why He Contested in Abuja

    Ike also explained why he chose to contest for a federal legislative seat in the FCT instead of his home state.

    According to him, he initially planned to pursue his political ambition in Imo State but changed course after repeated appeals from supporters in Abuja.

    “I actually wanted to run in my state, but a couple of people came to me. It was like a clarion call. They told me, ‘Sir, you need to do this now, we need you in Abuja,’” he said.

    The actor said concerns about development and governance in the municipal area influenced his decision to contest in the FCT.

  • US Plans Major Visa Processing Shake-Up Across Africa

    The United States is planning a major restructuring of its visa-processing operations across Africa, with reports indicating that the number of embassies and consulates handling visa applications could be reduced from nearly 50 to just 20 locations.

    The proposed move, approved by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is expected to affect visa services across the continent in the coming weeks.

    20 African Cities Selected as Visa Hubs

    According to reports citing US officials and an internal memo, the decision was communicated to American diplomats and consular chiefs during a conference call held on May 29.

    Under the proposed arrangement, visa-processing services will be concentrated in 20 designated hubs across Africa.

    The selected locations include Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dakar, Kampala, Kigali, Kinshasa, Lomé and Yaoundé, among others.

    Other approved centres include Abidjan, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, Luanda, Malabo, Monrovia, Port Louis and Praia.

    Implementation Date Yet to Be Confirmed

    Although the restructuring plan has reportedly received approval, US authorities have not officially announced when the changes will take effect.

    The proposal is expected to reshape visa application procedures for travellers across several African countries, particularly in locations that may lose direct visa-processing services.

    Part of Wider Diplomatic Changes

    The reported decision comes months after the administration of US President Donald Trump reportedly recalled ambassadors from more than two dozen countries, with African nations among the most affected.

    Observers say the latest development could further alter the US diplomatic footprint across the continent, particularly in the area of consular services and visa administration.