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  • “Take Me Instead” — Oyo Teacher’s Husband Begs Kidnappers to Free Wife, Baby After School Attack

    The husband of an abducted teacher in Oyo State has emotionally appealed to kidnappers to release his wife and their 18-month-old baby, offering himself in exchange for their freedom.

    The man made the appeal after gunmen attacked schools in Ahoro-Esiele Community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State last Friday, abducting pupils, teachers and residents.

    Speaking during an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, the distraught husband identified his wife as Mary Akanbi, one of the teachers kidnapped during the attack.

    “Take me instead”

    According to him, his wife was carrying their one-and-a-half-year-old baby on her back when the attackers abducted them.

    “My wife was kidnapped, her name is Akanbi Mary, she backed one-and-half-year-old baby,” he said.

    The grieving husband said the community had been left vulnerable following the attack, alleging that there was no adequate security presence to protect residents.

    “We the victims are the only people remaining in the community, with no security personnel, no protection whatsoever,” he lamented.

    Community still living in fear

    The man further claimed that some security operatives involved in rescue attempts were killed during operations in the area.

    “Most of the security personnel who tried rescue mission were all wasted,” he said.

    In an emotional plea directed at the abductors, he begged them to free his wife and child while taking him instead.

    “I will gladly give myself to them for the sake of my wife and my child. Let them free my wife and my child and just take me instead,” he said.

    “I am in the exact community where my family was taken. Let them come for me instead. They have taken everything; they have ruined my life.”

    Attack sparks outrage

    The attack on the schools in Oriire LGA has continued to generate outrage across the country.

    Gunmen had invaded LA Primary School and Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esiele Community, killing two people and abducting dozens of pupils and staff members.

    One of the abducted teachers was later reportedly killed in captivity, further deepening fears over the worsening insecurity in the area.

  • Court Voids INEC’s 2027 Election Timetable Over “Illegal” Primary Deadlines

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the 2027 election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ruling that parts of the schedule violated provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.

    Justice Mohammed Umar delivered the judgment in a suit filed by the Youth Party against INEC.

    The court held that INEC lacked the legal authority to impose timelines for political parties to conduct primaries and other pre-election activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Court Faults INEC’s Powers

    In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2026, the Youth Party challenged the legality of several deadlines contained in INEC’s revised timetable.

    Justice Umar ruled that the commission cannot lawfully shorten statutory timelines already provided under the Electoral Act.

    According to the court, INEC’s powers to monitor and receive notices of party primaries do not include fixing the period within which political parties must hold primaries.

    “A declaration is hereby made that the powers of the defendant to receive notice of party primaries… does not extend to fixing or prescribing the timetable within which political parties may conduct their primary elections,” the court ruled.

    Sections Of Timetable Nullified

    The court also set aside portions of the timetable relating to submission of candidates’ particulars, withdrawal and substitution of candidates, and campaign deadlines.

    Justice Umar held that:

    • INEC cannot reduce the 120-day constitutional window for submission of candidates’ particulars.
    • The commission cannot shorten the 90-day period allowed for withdrawal or substitution of candidates.
    • INEC cannot publish the final list of candidates earlier than the minimum 60 days provided by law.
    • The commission also lacks power to compel campaigns to end exactly two days before elections.

    The judge subsequently nullified all sections of the revised timetable inconsistent with the Electoral Act, 2026.

    Parties Already Conducting Primaries

    Before the ruling, political parties had already begun complying with INEC’s timetable.

    The revised schedule required parties to submit membership registers by May 10 and conclude primaries and candidate replacements before the end of May.

    However, the process has generated controversy in several states, especially within the ruling All Progressives Congress, where protests, withdrawals and allegations of candidate imposition have trailed ongoing primaries.

    The judgment is expected to trigger fresh legal and political debates over the conduct of the 2027 elections and INEC’s regulatory powers.

  • Tinubu Says Cabals Benefiting From Subsidy, Forex Deals Want Him Dead

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said some powerful interests affected by his administration’s economic reforms are unhappy and allegedly wishing him dead over the removal of petrol subsidy and foreign exchange reforms.

    The President made the remark on Wednesday during the launch of “The NADECO Story,” a book written by Chief Ayo Opadokun in Lagos.

    Tinubu was represented at the event by former Ogun State governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba.

    Tinubu Speaks On Subsidy, Forex Reforms

    According to Osoba, Tinubu said individuals who benefited from foreign exchange round-tripping and fuel subsidy payments were resisting his administration’s reforms.

    “As for security, he says, I should let you know, that he is aware that there is a deliberate attempt to disrupt the peace of this country by people whom he knew he had offended by canceling multiple exchange rates and by canceling oil subsidies,” Osoba said.

    “He said those cabals who are doing round-tripping will wish him dead any time, but he is determined that if that is the only thing he would do, he would make sure he rearranges the economy.”

    Osoba added that the President insisted he would continue with the reforms despite pressure from affected interests.

    Economy And Security Major Focus

    Tinubu reportedly described the economy and security as the two biggest challenges currently facing his administration.

    Osoba said the President expressed concern over worsening insecurity and the gradual spread of attacks into parts of the South-West region.

    “You all can see now that the security situation is now moving gradually into the South-West zone,” he said.

    The President also defended his foreign exchange reforms, arguing that the gap between the official and parallel market rates had significantly reduced.

    According to him, predictions that the naira would crash to ₦2,000 per dollar had not materialised.

    “You all can see that the difference between the parallel market and official market exchange rate is virtually zero now,” Osoba quoted Tinubu as saying.

    Tinubu Promises More Reforms

    Osoba further disclosed that Tinubu promised to revisit some political reforms demanded by pro-democracy actors if re-elected for a second term.

    The President also acknowledged the contributions of NADECO members and democracy activists to Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    “He is ever grateful for what all of you have done to bring this country to where we are today,” Osoba said.

    The event attracted several prominent Nigerians including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, Rashidi Ladoja, Olisa Agbakoba and Joke Silva.

  • Tinubu Appoints 39-Year-Old Professor Segun Aina as New JAMB Registrar

    President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), succeeding Professor Is-haq Oloyede whose tenure expires on July 31, 2026.

    The appointment makes Aina, who is currently 39 years old, the youngest registrar in the history of the examination body.

    The announcement was confirmed in a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.

    Youngest JAMB Registrar Emerges

    Professor Aina, a computer engineering expert and systems specialist, is expected to officially assume office after the expiration of Oloyede’s second tenure.

    He is a professor of computer engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and has over 15 years of experience in digital infrastructure, examination systems, and institutional reforms.

    According to the presidency, Tinubu expects him to build on the reforms and achievements recorded under the outgoing registrar.

    “President Tinubu expects Professor Aina to bring to bear his vast experience, knowledge and practical insight into the operations of the Board to take the critical educational organisation beyond the laudable heights achieved by his predecessor,” the statement said.

    Academic And Professional Background

    Aina studied Computer Systems Engineering at the University of Kent in the United Kingdom where he obtained a Bachelor of Engineering degree.

    He also earned a Master’s degree in Internet Computing and Network Security as well as a PhD in Digital Signal Processing from Loughborough University.

    The new registrar also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School.

    He reportedly began his relationship with JAMB during his National Youth Service year, where he gained early experience in admissions and examination systems.

    Experience In Education Technology

    Over the years, Aina has consulted for major examination bodies including NECO and NABTEB, advising on ICT systems, examination integrity, and digital reforms.

    He has also worked with federal and state governments on institutional transformation and policy design.

    The professor is a member of several professional organisations including the Nigerian Society of Engineers, COREN, IEEE, and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

    Oloyede’s Tenure Ends

    Professor Is-haq Oloyede, who has led JAMB since 2016, is widely credited with introducing major reforms in the board’s operations, particularly in revenue transparency, CBT examination systems, and admission processes.

    His tenure officially ends on July 31, 2026, after completing two terms in office.

  • Family of Slain Oyo Teacher Michael Oyedokun Breaks Silence, Reveals He Died Without a Child After Abduction

    The family of Michael Oyedokun, one of the schoolteachers abducted during the recent attacks in Oyo State, has described his killing as a devastating and irreplaceable loss, revealing that he died without a child after over a decade of marriage.

    Oyedokun was among several teachers seized by armed bandits during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, which left multiple communities in shock and fear.

    He was later killed after being held captive, in an incident that has continued to generate outrage across the country.

    Abduction during school attacks

    The late teacher was reportedly abducted alongside his colleagues from Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, during the attack on Friday.

    Other affected schools included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso.

    The attacks also claimed the lives of an assistant headmaster, Joel Adesiyan, and a commercial motorcyclist, deepening the tragedy.

    Following the incident, the Oyo State Government ordered the closure of schools across four local government areas while security agencies intensified rescue efforts for other victims.

    Disturbing video intensified fears

    A disturbing video allegedly released by the attackers later surfaced online, showing Oyedokun tied up and forced to speak before he was killed, sparking widespread condemnation and fear over the safety of remaining abductees.

    The circulation of the footage has also renewed calls for tighter control of graphic content on social media.

    “A calm and peaceful man” — Family speaks

    Speaking on behalf of the family, Ebeni Adediran described the late teacher as a calm, humble and dedicated educator who spent over two decades in the teaching profession.

    “He was a calm person and he did not like violence,” he said.

    Adediran explained that Oyedokun had worked in different parts of Oyo State before being transferred back to his community last year, where he remained closely connected with his family.

    “He was very accommodating and since he came back to our community, he always visited his parents regularly,” he added.

    Pain over childlessness

    The family also revealed the most painful part of the tragedy was that Oyedokun died without leaving behind a child after more than 10 years of marriage.

    “And the most painful part is that he did not leave any child behind,” Adediran said.

    “He had a wife but they did not have any child after more than 10 years of marriage.”

    The family said his death has created a deep void, describing the loss as one that cannot be replaced.

  • Tiwa Savage Opens Up on Why She Misses Don Jazzy, Mavin Records After Exit

    Nigerian music star Tiwa Savage has spoken candidly about the emotional support she enjoyed while signed to Mavin Records, admitting she did not fully appreciate it until after leaving the label.

    The singer made the revelation during a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast hosted by Joey Akan, where she reflected on the difference between local and foreign record labels.

    “I Didn’t Appreciate It Until I Left”

    According to Tiwa Savage, being under Mavin Records gave her access to emotional support from label boss Don Jazzy and fellow artists whenever she faced online controversies or personal struggles.

    She explained that during difficult moments, she often found comfort among members of the label.

    “Who you signed to is very important and I didn’t appreciate it until after I left Mavin,” she said.

    “Whenever there’s a controversy online I’d run to Don Jazzy’s room, sit on the floor or bed with other Mavin acts and we would talk about it. I would cry if I had to cry and we would get through it.”

    Singer Speaks on Foreign Labels

    Tiwa Savage also opened up about her experience after leaving Mavin Records in 2019 to sign with Universal Music Group.

    According to her, foreign labels often focus more on business and less on the emotional wellbeing of artists.

    “But being with a foreign label, they don’t really care about your personal stuff. So, I can’t really go to the Empire office and cry. I miss that part of it,” she added.

    The singer stressed that upcoming artists should be careful about the kind of label they sign with, warning that some companies only see artists as profit-making machines.

    Mavin Still Feels Like Family

    Despite exiting the label years ago, Tiwa Savage has repeatedly maintained that Mavin Records still feels like family to her.

    Her comments have sparked reactions online, with many fans praising Don Jazzy for creating what they described as a supportive environment for artists under the label.

  • Onisa of Esin Ele Invokes Gods After Oyo School Horror

    The Onisa of Esin Ele in Oyo State, Muraina Mutairo, has invoked traditional gods following the recent attack on schools and the abduction of pupils, students and teachers in Aholo-Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The traditional ruler was seen in a viral video performing traditional rites while calling on the gods to go after those responsible for the attack and ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.

    Traditional Ruler Performs Rites

    During the gathering attended by residents of the community, Mutairo reportedly declared that the attackers would face severe consequences if the kidnapped victims were not returned safely.

    The incident comes days after gunmen invaded schools in the area and abducted several pupils, students and teachers, throwing the community into panic.

    The attack has continued to trigger outrage and fear across Oyo State and beyond, as concerns grow over worsening insecurity in parts of the country.

    Beheaded Teacher’s Photos Emerge

    Meanwhile, photos of one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedekun, have surfaced online following reports of his death.

    Oyedekun was reportedly beheaded by the attackers in a disturbing video that circulated widely on social media earlier this week.

    The footage sparked grief and condemnation nationwide, with many Nigerians calling on the government to strengthen security and protect vulnerable communities.

    Family Appeals Over Viral Video

    Amid the spread of the graphic footage, a family member identified as Adesewa Oladosu appealed to Nigerians to stop sharing the video of the teacher’s killing.

    In an emotional Facebook post, she described the continued circulation of the footage as deeply traumatising for the family, especially the deceased’s children and relatives.

    She urged the public to use only officially approved family photographs whenever discussing the incident online.

    The development has also reignited conversations around the psychological impact of violent content shared on social media during national tragedies.

     

  • “I’m Coming Back to Lagos” — Lady Cries Out Over Alleged Herdsmen Attack in Imo Community

    A Nigerian lady has triggered emotional reactions online after crying out over an alleged attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen in a community in Imo State.

    In a viral video circulating on social media, the visibly distressed woman lamented the growing insecurity in the area, claiming residents were forced to flee their homes during the alleged attack.

    “People Don Scatter”

    According to her, the attackers allegedly invaded the community, kidnapped residents for ransom and destroyed properties around the local market area.

    “I’m coming back to Lagos. Fulani herdsmen attacked our community,” she said emotionally in the video.

    The woman further claimed that fear and uncertainty have now become part of daily life for many people living in some parts of the South-East.

    “People have to run and leave their homes. They can actually kill anybody they like and kidnap people to ask for ransom. People don scatter. I’m coming back please,” she added.

    Fear Over Rising Insecurity

    Her comments have added to growing concerns over insecurity across different parts of the country, especially attacks linked to kidnappings and armed violence.

    The video quickly gained traction online, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and calling on security agencies to strengthen protection for residents.

    Others also lamented the increasing number of reports involving attacks on rural communities and highways across the country.

    Reactions Flood Social Media

    The incident has continued to generate widespread debate online, with users demanding urgent action from authorities to address insecurity and protect lives and properties.

    As of the time of filing this report, security authorities in Imo State have not officially reacted to the claims made in the viral video.

  • NDLEA Dismantles Nigerian–Mexican Meth Cartel, Recovers ₦480 Billion Drugs in Ogun Forest Lab

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered and dismantled a major transnational methamphetamine production syndicate involving Nigerian and Mexican nationals in Ogun State.

    The operation led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including three Mexican drug “chemists” and the alleged Nigerian kingpin of the cartel.

    Forest meth lab uncovered in Ogun

    According to NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), the clandestine laboratory was discovered inside Abidagba forest in Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    The agency said the site was being used for large-scale production of methamphetamine disguised as a farm settlement.

    ₦480 billion worth of drugs recovered

    Marwa disclosed that operatives recovered 2,419.48 kilograms of chemical substances and finished meth products from the lab.

    He said the seized drugs have an estimated street value of about ₦480 billion in the international market.

    “The network did not just traffic drugs; they were actively manufacturing industrial-scale quantities of highly lethal illicit substances right on our soil,” Marwa said.

    10 suspects arrested, including Mexicans

    Those arrested include the alleged cartel leader, Anochili Innocent, alongside six Nigerian collaborators and three Mexican nationals reportedly brought in as technical experts.

    The Mexican suspects were identified as Martinez Felix Nemecto, Jesus López Valles, and Torrero Juan Carlos.

    Other Nigerian suspects include Nwankwo Sunday Christian, Igwe Abuchi Remijus, Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua, Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor, and Kingsley Orike Omonughwa.

    Lagos luxury estate linked to cartel boss

    NDLEA operatives also reportedly stormed properties linked to the kingpin in Lagos, including a luxury residence in Lakowe, Lekki.

    The agency said international passports and mobile phones of the Mexican suspects were recovered from the suspect’s residence, linking him directly to their operations.

    Coordinated intelligence operation

    Marwa said the raid was executed by the agency’s Special Operations Unit after months of intelligence gathering.

    He added that simultaneous operations were carried out across Ogun and Lagos States within 48 hours.

    NDLEA warns drug cartels

    The NDLEA boss warned drug traffickers that Nigeria remains hostile territory for illicit drug production and distribution.

    He also urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities, including unusual chemical smells or movements in rural communities.

    “This war is for the soul of our nation, and we will not back down until we achieve a drug-free Nigeria,” he said.

  • Tinubu Aide, Daniel Bwala, Says Nigerians Have Right to Self-Defence Amid Rising Insecurity

    The Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, has stated that Nigerians have the constitutional right to defend themselves against attackers, including using lethal force where necessary.

    Bwala made the remarks on Wednesday during an appearance on Arise Television while reacting to recent killings and abductions in parts of Oyo State.

    “Government will end killings” — Bwala

    He said the Federal Government remains committed to ending insecurity across the country, stressing that criminal elements operate globally but can be defeated through collective effort.

    “Solution is what we all look to… we will put an end to this as a people,” he said.

    He added that periods around elections often witness spikes in violence due to what he described as opportunistic criminal activity.

    Nigerians have right to self-defence

    Bwala also emphasised that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to self-defence.

    According to him, individuals are permitted to protect themselves if their lives are threatened inside their homes.

    “The constitution has guaranteed to every citizen of Nigeria the right to self-defence,” he said.

    He further explained that Nigerians may use necessary force to repel attackers if their lives are in danger.

    Call for collective security effort

    The presidential aide also highlighted the role of vigilante groups and community-based security structures in supporting law enforcement agencies.

    He noted that while citizens do not have unrestricted access to firearms, communities can legally organise themselves under government supervision to enhance local security intelligence.

    Context: Oyo attack and rising insecurity

    His comments come amid growing concerns over recent attacks and abductions reported in parts of Oyo State, which have sparked renewed debate on national security and self-defence laws.

    Security experts continue to stress the need for stronger intelligence coordination and improved response mechanisms to address rising criminal activity in rural communities.