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  • Oyo Police Arrest Six Suspects Over Abduction, Killing of Teachers and Pupils in Ahoro-Esiele

    The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of six suspects in connection with the deadly attack on schools in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, where pupils were abducted and two teachers alongside an okada rider were killed.

    The development comes days after the violent assault on the community, which has continued to spark fear and outrage across Oyo State and neighbouring areas.

    Suspects Allegedly Acted As Informants

    According to the police, the arrested suspects are believed to have played supporting roles as informants to the abductors before, during and after the attack.

    Investigators said early findings showed that some of the suspects were in direct communication with the attackers during the operation.

    The police explained that telephone records and conversations allegedly exchanged between the suspects and the abductors helped advance the investigation.

    Phone Records Led To Breakthrough

    State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that the breakthrough came after security operatives traced communications linked to the attack.

    He said the intercepted calls contained information that allegedly helped the attackers navigate through routes within the National Park and locate safe hideouts.

    “Our findings showed that some of the suspects were in contact with the abductors through telephone conversations,” Ayanlade said.

    He added that the communications are currently being analysed to determine the level of involvement of each suspect and identify others still at large.

    Joint Security Operation Ongoing

    The police disclosed that the arrests were carried out through coordinated operations involving the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, NSCDC, and Agro Rangers.

    According to the command, the joint operation is part of wider efforts to dismantle the criminal network behind the attack and rescue remaining victims.

    Authorities assured that efforts were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the syndicate.

    “We are committed to ensuring that every individual connected to this criminal act is identified, arrested and brought to justice,” the police spokesman added.

    Tension Remains In Oriire Communities

    The attack on Ahoro-Esiele has left residents in fear, especially after reports of killings and abductions involving schoolchildren and teachers.

    Security agencies say investigations are still ongoing as pressure mounts for the safe rescue of all victims and full exposure of those behind the incident.

  • APC Lawmaker Abdulkadir Rahis Shares ₦26m To Party Executives After Winning Primary

    The member representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abdulkadir Rahis, has distributed cash gifts to 442 executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his constituency.

    The development comes days after Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan reportedly shared ₦135,650,000 among APC executives within the same constituency ahead of the Sallah celebration.

    Rahis Distributes ₦26 Million To APC Executives

    According to reports, Rahis shared about ₦26 million among party officials across Maiduguri Metropolitan.

    The lawmaker reportedly described the gesture as part of his tradition of supporting party loyalists, stakeholders and grassroots executives during festive periods.

    The event was attended by ward executives, supporters and APC stakeholders from different parts of the constituency.

    The cash distribution also came shortly after Rahis emerged winner of the APC primary election for the constituency.

    Rahis Eyes Fifth Consecutive Term

    The APC lawmaker secured 20,509 votes during the just-concluded primary election to retain the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

    If re-elected, Rahis will be returning to the House of Representatives for a fifth consecutive term.

    Before becoming a federal lawmaker, he had also served five terms as chairman of the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Cash Distribution

    The development has triggered mixed reactions online, with some APC supporters praising the lawmakers for supporting party executives during the Sallah period.

    Others, however, criticised the public display and transportation of large sums of cash, questioning the growing trend of politicians openly distributing money to party loyalists.

    The latest development has further sparked conversations around political spending and party mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Osun Govt, Accord Raise Alarm Over Alleged Police Plot Ahead Of Governorship Election

    The Osun State Government and the leadership of the Accord Party have accused the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of allegedly deploying a special squad to target opposition figures ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

    The allegation was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, who claimed that the unit was created to carry out operations against Accord Party leaders and some government officials.

    Govt Alleges “Decapitation Operation”

    According to the statement, the alleged squad is being led by CSP Moses Lahor.

    “We have a reliable report that the Inspector General of Police has created and dispatched a special squad under CSP Moses Lahor for a decapitation operation against Accord leaders,” the statement alleged.

    The government further claimed that the operation involved plans for “selective commando-like arrests” of opposition figures.

    It alleged that the planned arrests were not intended for investigation purposes but for what it described as “possible summary execution.”

    Allegations Against APC Candidate

    The statement also accused the APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, of allegedly providing logistical support to the squad.

    According to the government, meetings were allegedly held between the squad and the APC candidate ahead of the operation.

    “The APC candidate has availed the alleged squad two Toyota 18-seater buses and one Sienna car for their operations,” the statement claimed.

    The government further alleged that the operation was being coordinated without the knowledge of the Osun State Commissioner of Police.

    Concerns Over Officer’s Past Conduct

    The statement also claimed that the squad leader had previously been posted out of Osun State following alleged misconduct linked to a shooting incident involving a suspected member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

    According to the government, the officer was later redeployed to another police unit as part of what it described as “operational punishment.”

    Call For Intervention

    The Osun government and Accord Party called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the international community to intervene over the alleged development.

    “We urge the Inspector General of Police to ensure that his men are not used to carry out unlawful operations in Osun State,” the statement added.

    They also warned against any attempt to disrupt the election process, insisting that residents of the state remained aware of what they described as political plots ahead of the poll.

    Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued any official response to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.

  • El-Rufai Family Raises Alarm Over DSS Transfer, Alleges Court Order Breach in Abuja Custody Dispute

    The family of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised serious concerns over what they described as a controversial transfer of the former governor to Department of State Services (DSS) custody after his court appearance in Abuja on Monday.

    They alleged that the move was carried out in violation of existing court orders directing that he remain under the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    Family Alleges Court Order Breach

    Speaking to journalists outside a DSS facility, El-Rufai’s wife, Hasiat, said the family had been living in fear due to alleged constant surveillance and repeated threats.

    “We now live in constant fear. Every day we get a threat — DSS is coming to raid your house, ICPC is coming to raid your house, police are coming to raid your house. You are being followed. Our phones are tapped,” she said.

    She explained that after appearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, El-Rufai was briefly moved during proceedings, despite earlier directives regarding his custody.

    “I Am Not Furniture” — El-Rufai Reportedly Resists Transfer

    Hasiat claimed the former governor resisted being moved to DSS custody, insisting that prior court orders required him to remain with the ICPC.

    “He said to them, I am not going to step down because there are two court orders… Why are you bringing me here? He said, I am not a furniture to be moved,” she stated.

    She further alleged that he was later returned to ICPC custody before being moved again after court proceedings, raising questions about the legality of the transfers.

    “What has changed?” she asked.

    Allegations of Medical Neglect and Long Detention

    The family also claimed that El-Rufai has been in custody for 91 days and has been denied consistent access to his personal doctors despite court approvals.

    Hasiat said medical follow-ups recommended by ICPC-appointed doctors were allegedly not properly implemented, worsening concerns about his health.

    “When you see a doctor and you run tests, you are expected to see the doctor back… He was denied access,” she said.

    Son, Allies Criticise Bail Conditions

    El-Rufai’s son, Hon. Bello El-Rufai, also criticised the bail conditions, describing them as excessive and impractical.

    “Who keeps a person for 91 days? Why were the terms of the bail so stringent?” he asked, questioning requirements tied to civil servants and property documentation.

    Supporters of the former governor also described the situation as psychological pressure, arguing that repeated transfers between agencies amounted to undue hardship.

    Security Update on Custody Status

    However, security sources confirmed that after consultations among legal representatives, El-Rufai was eventually returned to ICPC custody by 5pm on Monday.

    The situation continues to generate public debate as legal proceedings in the case remain ongoing.

  • Tinubu Vows Rescue of Abducted Oyo School Victims, Condemns Killing of Teacher as “Barbaric”

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that all victims abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State will be rescued, while strongly condemning the reported killing of one of the kidnapped teachers.

    The attack, which occurred last Friday, saw armed bandits storm Esiele community and abduct students, pupils and school staff from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.

    Tinubu Condemns Attack, Describes It As Barbaric

    In a statement issued by the State House and signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the incident as barbaric and extended condolences to the families of the victims and the Oyo State Government.

    “President Bola Tinubu has condemned as barbaric the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers from the Esiele community in Oyo State, while the rescue operation is underway,” the statement read.

    The Presidency confirmed that security agencies have already been deployed to track down the attackers and secure the release of all abducted victims.

    Security Forces Intensify Rescue Operations

    According to the statement, security operatives are currently conducting coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the victims and arresting those responsible for the attack.

    The Presidency said the operation is being led through intelligence-driven efforts involving multiple security agencies working across affected areas.

    “The Federal Government is working with the Oyo State government to rescue all the victims. Security operatives are working around the clock,” the statement added.

    Tinubu also praised the rapid response of the Inspector-General of Police and commissioners in Oyo and Kwara States, noting that tactical and intelligence teams have been deployed to the region.

    President Calls For State Police Reform

    The President used the opportunity to renew calls for the establishment of state police, describing it as a necessary step to strengthen security in underserved communities.

    He urged the National Assembly to speed up legislative processes on the matter, linking it to rising cases of kidnapping and rural insecurity.

    “The National Assembly should accelerate the enactment of the law creating state police,” Tinubu stated.

    He further assured that he is closely monitoring the situation and expects a breakthrough in the ongoing rescue operation.

  • Soludo Signs Sweeping Burial Law in Anambra, Bans Lavish Funerals, Restricts Aso Ebi, Casket Displays

    The Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo has introduced a sweeping new burial regulation law aimed at curbing extravagant funeral ceremonies and easing the financial pressure on grieving families across the state.

    The legislation, passed by the Anambra State House of Assembly, sets strict limits on burial activities, marking one of the most far-reaching attempts in recent years to reform funeral traditions in the state.

    Government Moves Against Lavish Burials

    According to the new law, condolence gifts are now strictly regulated. Families are only permitted to receive limited items, including money, one jar of palm wine, one carton of beer and one crate of soft drinks.

    The government said the move is designed to discourage wasteful spending and reduce the growing culture of competitive and expensive funerals that often plunge families into debt.

    Burials Restricted To One Day

    The law further mandates that all burial ceremonies must be concluded within a single day, with midweek burials now prohibited.

    Wake keeps have also been completely abolished, while funeral activities are restricted to Saturdays only.

    Religious services such as vigil masses and songs of praise are required to end by 9pm, with strict bans placed on live bands, entertainment, food distribution and cultural displays during such events.

    Aso Ebi, Caskets And Mourning Practices Affected

    Under the new provisions, the use of “aso ebi” is now restricted to immediate family members and specific recognised groups such as church organisations and community associations.

    Public display of caskets for advertisement or sale has also been banned, while dancing with caskets during burial ceremonies is prohibited.

    The law also bars the erection of large billboards, banners and posters of deceased persons, allowing only directional signage within seven days of burial.

    Strict Enforcement Measures Introduced

    To enforce compliance, the state government will set up monitoring committees across communities to oversee burial approvals and ensure adherence to the new rules.

    The legislation also limits undertakers to six persons per burial and prohibits road blockages during funeral events.

    Corpses are not to remain in mortuaries beyond two months, with unclaimed bodies to be handled by government-designated burial sites.

    Offenders risk a ₦100,000 fine, six months imprisonment, or both, as the state moves to enforce what it describes as a cultural and economic reform.

    The law has already sparked discussions across the state, with many viewing it as a bold attempt to reset long-standing burial traditions in Anambra.

  • Wedding Turns To Mourning As Soldier Dies Weeks Before Marriage In Sokoto Ambush

    Family members, friends, and colleagues have been thrown into mourning following the reported death of Nigerian military officer, Lieutenant Abdullahi Isma’il Chafe, after an alleged ambush on military personnel in Sokoto State.

    The tragic incident was said to have occurred just weeks before the officer’s wedding ceremony scheduled for June 13, 2026, turning what was meant to be a joyful period into grief for his loved ones.

    Wedding Plans Cut Short By Tragedy

    Reports circulating online claimed the late officer lost his life during an ambush involving Nigerian military personnel in Sokoto.

    The heartbreaking development sparked emotional reactions across social media, especially after a wedding invitation card allegedly belonging to the deceased officer surfaced online.

    A family member of the bride, identified as @aeesha_bagudu on X, confirmed the incident while mourning the loss of her cousin’s fiancé.

    “There was an ambush on the Nigerian military late yesterday night in Sokoto and my cousin whose wedding was a few weeks from today lost her fiancée. Officers lost their lives and there’s nothing about it online,” she wrote.

    Tributes Pour In Online

    Several Nigerians took to social media to mourn the officer while sympathising with his family and colleagues.

    A user identified as @BAface369 wrote, “We lost colleague Chafe yesterday in a war zone ambush. He was young, promising, and devoted to his duty and faith. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him mercy, and admit him to Jannah.”

    Another user, @TobechiOgazi, described the situation as one of the painful realities of insecurity in Nigeria.

    “This is one of the saddest parts of insecurity in Nigeria. Families lose fathers, sons, fiancés, and brothers, then the news disappears almost immediately like those lives never mattered,” the post read.

    Others also shared similar experiences involving security personnel allegedly killed during operations without widespread public attention.

    Fresh Concerns Over Security Challenges

    The incident has once again triggered conversations about the dangers faced daily by Nigerian security operatives amid ongoing insecurity across different parts of the country.

    Many Nigerians described the development as heartbreaking, especially considering the officer was preparing for his wedding before the reported attack.

    As condolences continue to pour in, several social media users have called for improved welfare and security measures for military personnel risking their lives in service to the nation.

  • Sowore Supporters Clash With Security Operatives Outside Kaduna Court as El-Rufai Departs Proceedings

    Tension erupted on Monday outside a court in Kaduna as supporters of activist Omoyele Sowore reportedly clashed with security operatives following the departure of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai from ongoing court proceedings.

    The confrontation created a chaotic scene around the courthouse, with supporters and security personnel jostling in a crowded corridor as proceedings came to an end.

    Tension builds outside courtroom

    Video clips circulating online showed a dense crowd of individuals, including men in suits, traditional attire and security gear, pushing through a narrow hallway outside the court premises.

    Witnesses said the situation escalated shortly after El-Rufai exited the courtroom, triggering a confrontation between opposing groups present at the venue.

    Sowore supporters at centre of confrontation

    Sources described the incident as a clash involving Sowore’s supporters and security operatives deployed around the court area.

    The atmosphere was said to be highly charged, with individuals recording the scene on mobile phones as the confrontation unfolded.

    El-Rufai leaves amid disorder

    El-Rufai, who is currently facing an ongoing corruption trial in Kaduna, reportedly left the court premises as the situation intensified outside.

    The former governor has been at the centre of legal proceedings that have drawn significant political attention and public reactions in recent months.

    Background to ongoing trial

    The case involving El-Rufai has seen multiple adjournments and bail applications, with proceedings now scheduled to continue in June 2026 under accelerated hearing arrangements.

    Activist Omoyele Sowore has also been vocal about the case, criticising delays in bail proceedings and describing strict bail conditions as excessive.

    Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on whether arrests or injuries were recorded during the latest incident.

  • Ogbomoso Teachers Protest Abduction, Killing of Colleagues as Security Fears Escalate in Oyo

    Angry teachers in Oyo State have taken to the streets in Ogbomoso in protest over the abduction and killing of their colleagues following a deadly attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinele community.

    The protest comes amid rising tension in the state after terrorists reportedly abducted more than 45 students and several teachers, including school principals, during coordinated attacks on educational facilities.

    Teachers demand urgent government action

    In a viral video from the protest, one of the teachers expressed fear over the increasing insecurity, warning that schools could become repeated targets if urgent action is not taken.

    “We don’t know the next target, security is a right, please protect us,” she said.

    The protesting teachers called on the government to immediately strengthen security around schools and ensure the rescue of abducted colleagues and students.

    They also urged teachers across the state to consider withdrawing their services until concrete steps are taken to guarantee safety in schools.

    Attack leaves community in shock

    The attack reportedly occurred between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. last Friday at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, where armed men stormed the premises and whisked away students and staff.

    Among those abducted was the school principal, Rachael Alamu, alongside several teachers and students whose total number is still being confirmed by authorities.

    A resident described how the attackers invaded the school before escaping with victims into surrounding forest areas.

    Killed teacher sparks outrage

    Tension further escalated after reports emerged that one of the abducted teachers, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, was killed in captivity, with disturbing videos reportedly circulating online.

    The incident has deepened fears among residents and intensified calls for stronger security intervention in rural school communities.

    Government urged to act swiftly

    The protesting teachers appealed directly to Governor Seyi Makinde and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging immediate rescue efforts and improved protection for schools.

    They warned that continued attacks on teachers and students threaten the foundation of education in the state, stressing that schools must no longer remain vulnerable.

    As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have yet to issue a fresh update on the ongoing rescue operations.

  • Court Grants Justice Crack ₦5m Bail in Cybercrime Case Amid Viral Soldiers’ Video Row

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to social media activist Chidiebere Mark, popularly known as Justice Crack, in the sum of ₦5 million with one surety in like sum.

    The ruling was delivered on Monday by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, bringing temporary relief for the detained influencer who has been in custody over cybercrime-related allegations.

    Bail conditions outlined by court

    The court ordered that the defendant must produce a surety in the sum of ₦5 million as part of the bail conditions.

    Justice Crack is expected to meet the requirements before his release from Department of State Services (DSS) custody.

    Case linked to viral military video

    The activist was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on alleged cybercrime, including the circulation of false information said to be capable of causing public unrest.

    The charges stem from a viral video relating to comments about soldiers’ welfare, which later triggered public debate online.

    He had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    Earlier courtroom setback

    The case had suffered an earlier delay on May 14, 2026, after a bail application was withdrawn following a dispute between two lawyers over representation.

    The court later struck out the earlier processes and adjourned the matter to May 18 for hearing of a fresh bail application, which was eventually successful.

    The development has continued to generate reactions online, with supporters of the activist celebrating the ruling while others await further legal proceedings.