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  • Fear Grows as Abductors Threaten to Marry Off Emir’s Wives in Kwara

    Fresh anxiety has spread across Yashikira community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State after abductors reportedly threatened to marry off some wives of the Emir of Yashikira and other female captives if ransom negotiations fail.

    The threat comes days after armed attackers invaded the community, abducting several residents during coordinated assaults on the Emir’s palace and a police station.

    Abductors Demand ₦150 Million Ransom

    Security sources familiar with ongoing rescue efforts said the kidnappers are demanding about ₦150 million for the release of the victims.

    According to the sources, the abductors are seeking an estimated ₦15 million for each captive and have become increasingly frustrated over delays in payment.

    One source involved in the rescue process said the threat was communicated through contacts linked to negotiations.

    “The terrorists have threatened that if the ransom is not paid, they will marry off the Emir’s wives and other female victims to their commanders,” the source said.

    Community and Security Teams Concerned

    The source added that information about the threat had been shared with local vigilante groups and security personnel participating in intelligence-gathering efforts.

    “Everyone is worried because the abductors appear to be increasing pressure on the families and the community,” the source said.

    The development has heightened fears among residents as efforts continue to secure the release of those still in captivity.

    Attack Left Community in Shock

    The abductions followed a coordinated attack on Yashikira community in the early hours of May 24, 2026.

    Gunmen reportedly targeted both the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the palace of the Emir before abducting several residents.

    A police officer who survived the attack said the assailants overpowered security operatives with superior firepower.

    “The terrorists attacked the police station with the intention to kill all of us. They had more sophisticated weapons than us and they overpowered us before invading the Emir’s palace,” the officer said.

    He added that many officers on duty were armed mainly with pistols, while the attackers carried AK-47 rifles and arrived on motorcycles.

    Rescue Efforts Continue

    Security agencies and local vigilante groups are continuing efforts to secure the release of the victims and track down those responsible for the attack.

    The incident has added to growing concerns about insecurity in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring communities.

  • DSS Arrests Two Foreign Nationals, Three Others Over Niger School Attack

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested five suspected arms couriers, including two foreign nationals from Niger Republic, over their alleged involvement in the November 2025 attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.

    The attack led to the abduction of nearly 300 students and staff, making it one of the most severe mass kidnapping incidents in the state.

    Arrests and weapons recovery

    Security sources said the suspects were arrested during intelligence-led operations that also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons, including 15 AK-103 rifles, 15 magazines, and 1,434 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

    Among those arrested were Yusuf Mohammed, also known as Bature, reportedly on the wanted list of Boko Haram, and his associate, Mubarak Ibrahim.

    The duo was intercepted along the Zaria–Kaduna Highway while allegedly en route to collect arms for terrorist commanders.

    Cross-border arms network uncovered

    Further operations led to the arrest of Goni Ibrahim, identified as an international arms courier from the Diffa Region of Niger Republic, alongside another suspect linked to the network.

    Security operatives also arrested another suspect, Alhaji Adamu, popularly known as Gado Banufe, in Yauri, Kebbi State, over alleged arms supply activities.

    Investigations suggest the suspects played key roles in supplying weapons used in the Papiri school attack.

    Background of the attack

    On November 21, 2025, armed men stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in the early hours, abducting students and teachers after shooting sporadically.

    About 50 pupils reportedly escaped during the attack, while over 250 were taken into the Kainji Lake National Park forest.

    Authorities later confirmed that all abducted victims were rescued and reunited with their families in December 2025 after weeks in captivity.

    Security response

    The latest arrests are expected to strengthen ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle arms trafficking networks and prosecute those linked to the attack.

    Officials say investigations are ongoing as authorities continue tracking cross-border supply routes used by criminal groups.

  • Take-It-Back Movement Protests Kidnapping of Oyo Schoolchildren in Ibadan

    Members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday staged a protest at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the kidnapping of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The protesters, who gathered at the busy junction in the state capital, called on government authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the safe rescue of the abducted victims.

    They also demanded urgent action to address the rising wave of kidnappings across Oyo State and improve security in vulnerable communities.

    The demonstration disrupted normal activity around the area as participants carried placards and chanted solidarity messages.

    Further details are expected as the situation develops.

    Watch the video below:

  • Tinubu Approves Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards in Oyo Over Rising Insecurity, Abduction Crisis

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of urgent measures aimed at strengthening security following recent abductions in parts of the state.

    The decision comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in the state, particularly the kidnapping of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The development was disclosed on Sunday, May 31, during a visit by a high-level federal government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire.

    The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

    Security Reinforcement Measures

    During the visit, the delegation informed community leaders that the request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.

    Gbajabiamila also disclosed that the President had directed a specialised security unit with advanced capabilities to intensify rescue operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the recruitment of forest guards forms part of a broader strategy to improve surveillance and respond to security threats in forested and vulnerable areas.

    Presidential Commitment to Rescue Efforts

    Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the abduction and has ordered full support for security agencies involved in the rescue mission.

    “Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.

    He added that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to ensure the safe return of the victims.

    Community Reassurance

    The delegation assured affected communities that the Federal Government is committed to addressing insecurity in the region and preventing future attacks on schools.

    The move comes as authorities continue efforts to locate and rescue abducted students and teachers, while security agencies intensify operations across vulnerable areas in Oyo State.

  • NLC Rejects Proposed ₦100,000 Minimum Wage, Says Nigerian Workers Deserve More

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected a proposed ₦100,000 national minimum wage reportedly being considered by state governors, insisting that the amount is not enough to meet the realities of Nigeria’s worsening economic situation.

    The labour union said rising inflation, fuel costs, electricity tariffs and the continued depreciation of the naira have significantly reduced the value of workers’ earnings.

    Governors Reviewing Wage Structure

    The debate followed comments by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that governors were discussing a possible review of the national minimum wage.

    According to him, ₦100,000 is among the figures being considered as governments seek ways to respond to the growing cost-of-living crisis affecting workers across the country.

    He stated that consultations were ongoing between state governments, the Federal Government and organised labour to ensure any wage adjustment remains sustainable.

    NLC Says ₦100,000 Is Not Enough

    Reacting to the proposal, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah described the amount as inadequate.

    He argued that the economic realities facing workers today make the proposed figure unrealistic, noting that the cost of transportation, food, housing and other essential services has risen sharply in recent years.

    According to him, the purchasing power of workers has continued to decline despite previous wage adjustments.

    Labour Pushes for Higher Wage

    Upah maintained that any meaningful wage review must reflect the actual cost of living in Nigeria.

    He said the current economic environment requires a much higher benchmark than ₦100,000, adding that workers are struggling to cope with increasing expenses.

    The labour leader also argued that improved government revenues should translate into better welfare packages for workers.

    Fresh Debate Over Workers’ Welfare

    The latest disagreement comes amid renewed calls for wage adjustments following the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange reforms, which have contributed to higher prices of goods and services.

    Nigeria’s current minimum wage of ₦70,000, approved in 2024 after extensive negotiations, has faced criticism from labour groups who argue that inflation has already eroded its value.

    As discussions continue, organised labour insists that any new wage structure must provide genuine relief for workers battling economic hardship.

  • Oyo Teachers Begin Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Ogbomoso Pupils, Teachers

    The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to begin an indefinite strike following the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The strike, which takes effect from Monday, June 1, 2026, is expected to shut down public schools across the state until all the victims regain their freedom.

    NUT Takes Drastic Action

    In a statement jointly signed by NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, and Secretary General, Dr. Clinton J. Ikpitibo, the union said the decision became necessary due to the prolonged captivity of the victims.

    The union expressed concern that despite several appeals to government authorities and security agencies, there has been no significant breakthrough in securing the release of the abducted teachers and students.

    According to the NUT, schools, teachers and pupils should never become easy targets for criminal elements.

    Nationwide Solidarity Protests Planned

    Beyond the strike action in Oyo State, the union also directed all its state chapters across Nigeria to organise solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2.

    The protests are expected to take place in different states, with participants marching to Government Houses to demand urgent intervention and the safe return of the victims.

    The union said the demonstrations are intended to draw national attention to the worsening security situation affecting schools and educational institutions.

    Fear Grows Over Victims’ Welfare

    The NUT disclosed that anxiety has continued to grow following reports suggesting that some of the abducted victims may have died in captivity.

    The union also referenced videos reportedly released by the kidnappers, showing an abducted school principal and teacher appealing to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, the NUT and Nigerians for urgent intervention.

    The emotional footage has sparked widespread concern among teachers, parents and education stakeholders.

    Education Cannot Thrive Under Fear

    The union maintained that the trauma suffered by the victims, their families and the wider education community made the strike unavoidable.

    It called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the unconditional release of all those still being held captive.

    The NUT stressed that meaningful education cannot take place in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, vowing to sustain lawful pressure until the abducted teachers and pupils are freed.

  • Defence Minister Christopher Musa Urges Nigerians to Back Tinubu, Says Reforms Need More Time

    Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that the administration’s reforms require more time to achieve their intended results.

    Musa made the appeal during a recent interview with journalists, where he argued that many of the country’s current challenges are rooted in long-standing issues that previous administrations failed to address.

    “Tinubu Is Taking Bold Decisions”

    According to the Defence Minister, President Tinubu has demonstrated courage by confronting problems that had been ignored for years.

    He said the administration’s policies may be difficult for many citizens at the moment but maintained that the reforms are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term stability and development.

    “If he could have done this in three years, imagine if he has four or five additional years to finish. We need Nigerians to understand that a lot of things that were left out are what he is tackling. He is taking very bold action,” Musa said.

    Calls for Patience Amid Hardship

    The minister acknowledged the economic and social difficulties many Nigerians are facing but urged citizens to remain patient.

    Using childbirth as an analogy, Musa said periods of hardship often precede positive outcomes.

    “When you take bold action, there will be difficulty at the beginning, but at the end of it, it’s just like a woman that is pregnant. Immediately she delivers, she’ll be joyful. What we are going through is making us stronger, and we are going to come out better,” he added.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    Musa’s comments have sparked debate on social media, with supporters agreeing that major reforms often require time before benefits become visible.

    However, critics argue that many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs, unemployment and security concerns, making it difficult to embrace calls for patience.

    Despite the criticism, the Defence Minister expressed confidence that Nigeria would emerge stronger if the current administration is allowed to complete its reform agenda.

  • Man Arrested Over Cross River Killings Says He Sought Revenge for Family Lost 29 Years Ago

    A 40-year-old man, Akaninyene Eretus, arrested in Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, has told police investigators that he killed two men in an attempt to avenge the deaths of his parents and two elder brothers during a communal conflict nearly 29 years ago.

    The suspect is currently in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), where he reportedly confessed to the killings of two men identified as Okokon and Okon.

    Suspect Explains Motive

    According to the Cross River State Police Command, Eretus told detectives that he had lived with the pain of losing his family members for almost three decades and decided to take revenge.

    In his confession, he reportedly said:

    “I killed them because I could not forget my family being taken from me. For 29 years I lived with the pain. I wanted justice; I thought I could right the wrongs done to my parents and brothers.”

    Police said the killings took place on May 24 and May 25, 2026.

    How The Victims Were Killed

    The suspect further disclosed that one of the victims was allegedly killed while asleep, while the second victim was attacked with a machete.

    Authorities said two bodies believed to be those of the victims have been recovered and deposited at a hospital morgue for preservation, identification, and autopsy.

    Police Clarify Viral Claims

    The case drew widespread attention after reports emerged online about the discovery of shallow graves in a forest hideout located in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community.

    Some social media posts claimed the suspect had confessed to killing as many as 30 people.

    However, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, dismissed those reports, describing them as unverified.

    According to him, only two bodies have been recovered so far and investigations are ongoing.

    Investigation Continues

    Police authorities said further inquiries are being carried out to establish the full circumstances surrounding the killings and determine whether there are additional victims connected to the case.

    The command urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information while investigations remain active.

  • Looting Erupts in South African Town as Foreign-Owned Shops Targeted After Deportation Dispute

    Several shops owned by foreign nationals were looted in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on Friday following rising tensions over a controversial ultimatum issued to undocumented foreign business owners.

    The incident occurred just days after a deadline given by local authorities for certain foreign traders to leave the town expired.

    Six Foreign-Owned Shops Looted

    KwaZulu-Natal Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that six foreign-owned shops were targeted during the unrest.

    According to him, no injuries were reported and law enforcement officers quickly moved to restore calm in the area.

    “Six shops owned by foreign nationals were looted and calm has been restored in the area,” Netshiunda said.

    He added that police are currently assessing the situation while investigations continue.

    Tensions Linked to Court Challenge

    Authorities believe the unrest may be connected to a legal dispute involving Estcourt Mayor Mduduzi Myeza.

    The mayor had reportedly issued a 21-day deadline directing undocumented foreign business owners to leave the town.

    The deadline expired on May 27, prompting affected traders to challenge the directive in court on May 26.

    Police said some residents may have reacted to the legal action taken by the foreign nationals against the mayor’s decision.

    Authorities Seek Lasting Solution

    Netshiunda disclosed that a meeting involving the mayor’s office, police officials and property owners was scheduled for Friday afternoon.

    The gathering is expected to address growing tensions between local residents, foreign nationals and government authorities.

    Officials hope the discussions will help prevent further violence and promote peaceful coexistence within the community.

    Fresh Concerns Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The incident has renewed concerns about recurring anti-foreigner sentiment in parts of South Africa, where foreign-owned businesses have frequently been targeted during periods of social and economic tension.

    While no casualties were reported in the latest unrest, the attack has once again highlighted the fragile relationship between local communities and migrant business owners in some areas of the country.

  • Abducted Oyo School Principal Pleads for Government Action in Viral Captivity Video

    A viral video showing Mrs Rachael Alamu, the abducted principal of Community High School, Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has intensified public concern over the continued captivity of teachers and students kidnapped in the region.

    The 72-second clip, shared on X, shows the visibly distressed school principal appealing directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and education stakeholders to urgently intervene and secure their release.

    Abducted Principal Speaks From Captivity

    In the video, Mrs Alamu, appearing weakened and emotional, said she and other victims had spent days in harsh conditions since their abduction.

    “We have been picked from work and still now we are sitting in the bush,” she said, pleading for urgent rescue efforts.

    She also called for negotiation with the abductors rather than force, stressing that the situation required immediate dialogue to save lives.

    “We are in the cold, under sun, rain. The children as well. Please don’t let them waste our lives,” she added.

    Renewed Pressure on Government and Security Agencies

    The video emerged on the same day education workers and stakeholders in Oyo State staged peaceful demonstrations in Ibadan and Ogbomoso, demanding urgent rescue operations for the abducted victims.

    Reports indicate that the May 15 attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community led to the killing of a mathematics teacher and the abduction of about 39 students and seven teachers.

    Victims reportedly include very young children, heightening national outrage over the scale of the attack.

    Ongoing Rescue Operations

    As of May 29, 2026, no official rescue has been confirmed, despite coordinated operations involving the military, police, Nigerian Air Force, and local vigilantes.

    Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that security agencies are working round the clock to secure the release of the victims, while federal authorities continue to monitor the situation.

    Security sources say operations remain active in the affected forest corridors, though details are being restricted for operational reasons.

    Public Outrage and Growing Security Concerns

    The viral video has triggered widespread reactions across social media, with Nigerians expressing frustration over the prolonged captivity and the persistence of school kidnappings in the country.

    Many have called for faster intervention, improved intelligence operations, and stronger protection for schools in vulnerable areas.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting educational institutions, which have continued to raise fears among parents and communities.

    Authorities have urged calm while assuring that efforts to rescue the abducted victims are ongoing.