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Category: Breaking News

  • Bandits Attack Kogi Community, Abduct Pastors, Families in Night Raid

    Suspected bandits have attacked Odo-Eri community in Yagba West LGA of Kogi State, abducting several residents including clergymen and their families in a late-night raid that has triggered fresh security concerns.

    Night attack sparks panic

    Local sources said the attackers stormed the community around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, firing gunshots to scare residents before carrying out the abductions.

    The victims reportedly include pastors, their wives, children, aides, and other residents, though the exact number remains unclear.

    “We cannot confirm the exact number or identities of those abducted at this time. Many residents fled for safety during the chaos,” a source said.

    Clergymen among victims

    Information circulating within the community indicates that a pastor from the Christ Apostolic Church and another from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, alongside their families, were among those taken.

    Residents said the gunfire threw the area into panic, forcing many to flee their homes by Thursday morning.

    Sources added that the attackers escaped through Abewo Road, linking Okunran and Okoloke communities toward the Kwara State axis.

    Senator reacts, urges action

    Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, condemned the attack and warned against a return to worsening insecurity in the area.

    “Unknown gunmen reportedly invaded Odo-Eri community and abducted a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God alongside his wife, children, and several other residents,” he said.

    He described the incident as a desperate act by criminal elements under pressure and expressed confidence that those responsible would be apprehended.

    Karimi also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and called on residents to remain vigilant and share credible information.

    Police yet to respond

    Efforts to reach the Kogi State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not answered at the time of filing this report.

    The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity, with communities continuing to face attacks from armed groups, a development dominating latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Troops Kill 24 Terrorists, Repel Midnight Attack on Kukareta in Borno

    Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralised 24 terrorists after repelling a coordinated midnight attack on Kukareta community in Borno State.

    Midnight attack repelled after fierce gun battle

    Security sources said the attack began around midnight and lasted until about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday before troops overpowered the insurgents.

    The troops engaged the attackers in a prolonged firefight, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing them to retreat.

    At least 24 terrorists were confirmed killed during the operation.

    Weapons recovered from insurgents

    Following the encounter, troops recovered a cache of weapons, including 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns, and two PKT anti-aircraft guns.

    Other items recovered include three Rocket Propelled Grenade tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, and 18 AK-47 magazines.

    A large quantity of 7.62mm ammunition used for anti-aircraft weapons was also recovered at the scene.

    Casualties recorded among troops

    Two soldiers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and are currently receiving medical treatment.

    Military sources described the operation as a significant success in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.

    Rising attacks across the region

    The development comes amid increased attacks by terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, targeting military formations in recent weeks.

    Some of the attacks have resulted in casualties among security personnel, including senior officers.

    Security analysts say the renewed assaults may be aimed at weakening military operations and looting weapons from bases.

    Ongoing operations intensify

    The latest operation adds to recent military actions in Borno, including airstrikes in parts of the Sambisa Forest targeting terrorist hideouts.

    Troops continue to intensify efforts to contain insurgency activities across the region.

    The incident is part of ongoing security developments featured in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Abducted UNIJOS Graduate John Arum Azi Regains Freedom After 10 Days in Captivity

    John Arum Azi, a former student of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), has regained his freedom after spending 10 days in captivity after he was abducted while travelling to Kaduna State.

    Abduction on road to Zaria

    Arum, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was kidnapped by armed men while travelling from Jos, Plateau State, to Zaria in Kaduna State.

    His abduction had earlier sparked public outrage after a video surfaced showing him being assaulted by his captors, who demanded a ransom for his release.

    The kidnappers initially demanded ₦30 million, threatening to kill him if the money was not paid.

    Ransom negotiations and increased demands

    Following negotiations with his family, the ransom was reportedly reduced to ₦6 million.

    However, after payment was made with support from well-meaning Nigerians, the abductors allegedly demanded an additional ₦4 million before agreeing to release him.

    The repeated demands further heightened tension around the case and drew widespread condemnation online.

    Freedom after 10 days

    The victim was eventually released on Wednesday after spending about 10 days in captivity.

    A video shared on social media by his family confirmed his release and reunion with loved ones.

    He has since been reunited with his family, bringing relief to relatives and supporters who had followed the case closely.

    Rising insecurity concerns

    The incident adds to growing concerns over kidnappings along major travel routes in parts of northern and central Nigeria, where ransom-related abductions continue to be reported.

  • Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to Algeria Mohammed Mahmud Lele Dies in Türkiye After Prolonged Illness

    Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, has died in Ankara, Türkiye, after a prolonged illness, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed.

    Foreign Affairs Ministry confirms death

    The ministry announced his passing in a statement issued in Abuja by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, noting that Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026.

    He was said to have been receiving treatment before his death in Türkiye.

    Recent ambassadorial appointment

    Until his passing, Lele served as Director of the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    He had recently been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as ambassador-designate to Algeria following Senate confirmation, a posting he did not live to assume.

    Diplomatic career and background

    Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University Kano.

    Over the course of his career, he held several diplomatic postings in cities including Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.

    The ministry described him as a committed career diplomat with a strong record of service in Nigeria’s foreign missions.

    Final rites and burial

    His remains were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed.

    He was later buried in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites.

    Nation mourns diplomat

    The ministry said his death represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s foreign service, especially at a time of expanding diplomatic engagements across Africa and the Middle East.

     

  • Boko Haram Suspect Alleges Link to Senior Military Figure in Abuja During Interrogation Video

    A man identified as a suspected Boko Haram member has made explosive claims during interrogation, alleging that the terrorist group operates under the influence of a senior military figure based in Abuja, in a video now circulating widely online.

    The suspect, who was seen tied to a tree and questioned by security operatives, repeatedly referenced an unnamed individual he described as “Manga Manga” and “Baban soja,” a Hausa phrase meaning “big soldier.”

    “My oga dey work for big soldier in Abuja”

    Speaking in a mix of Hausa and Nigerian Pidgin English, the suspect alleged that his immediate commander reports to the said figure in Abuja.

    “My oga dey work for that big soldier for Abuja,” he said, insisting that the group’s operations are linked to a high-ranking officer.

    He further claimed that his commander’s family is also with the same individual in Abuja, adding that he could lead security forces to the person if released.

    “If una loose me, I go show everything,” he said, repeatedly requesting to be untied during questioning.

    Denies possession of weapons

    When pressed on his involvement in armed activity, the suspect denied carrying any firearm.

    “I no get gun,” he stated.

    Despite further questioning, he maintained his position but refused to provide additional details unless his demand for release was granted.

    Claims unverified, authorities silent

    The allegations have not been independently verified, and no official response has been issued by security agencies regarding the claims or the identities mentioned in the video.

    The circulation of the footage has, however, triggered fresh debate online about infiltration claims and the credibility of statements made by suspects under interrogation.

    Security experts urge caution

    Security analysts caution that statements obtained under duress or during field interrogations must be treated carefully until independently investigated and confirmed.

    They stress that misinformation and coerced confessions can sometimes complicate ongoing counter-terrorism operations if not properly verified.

  • ISWAP Fighters Bury 30 Members After Nigerian Airstrikes Hit Northern Borno Hideouts

    Fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been seen burying dozens of their members following a series of Nigerian Air Force airstrikes that reportedly struck terrorist positions in parts of northern Borno State, in what security sources describe as one of the most intense recent interdiction operations in the region.

    What happened

    The footage, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), was shared by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama and appears to show ISWAP operatives conducting mass burial rites after sustaining heavy losses from coordinated air operations carried out under Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East theatre.

    The development comes shortly after reports that the Nigerian Air Force carried out precision strikes targeting terrorist hideouts along waterways and forested areas, following intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) monitoring of suspected ISWAP movement in the Kaniram Island axis and surrounding locations.

    How the operation unfolded

    Security sources said ISR platforms first detected unusual movement of approximately 31 boats along a riverbank, with activity patterns consistent with armed terrorist logistics operations. After confirmation of the targets, the Air Force reportedly launched precision strikes in line with established engagement protocols.

    The first wave of strikes disrupted the terrorists’ movement network and damaged several boats believed to be used for transportation and supply operations across waterways in the area. According to the account, follow-up surveillance showed attempts by surviving fighters to regroup in nearby vegetation, prompting additional targeted strikes.

    A second round of precision attacks reportedly neutralised about eight fighters, while a third strike hit another group of roughly 15 militants who had taken cover under dense tree cover. Battle Damage Assessment later confirmed significant casualties, with remaining fighters seen dispersing from surrounding hideouts.

    Burial video and battlefield aftermath

    In the video now circulating online, ISWAP members are seen burying what is believed to be about 30 of their fighters in the Mallam Fatori axis, an area frequently linked to insurgent movement and cross-border activity in Borno State.

    Security sources cited by Makama said the burials followed sustained aerial pressure that left the group with heavy operational losses, forcing them to conduct emergency rites for fallen members in the aftermath of the strikes.

    The Nigerian military has continued its air and ground operations across the North-East, targeting insurgent enclaves and supply routes in a bid to weaken their mobility and logistics capacity.

  • Police Launch Green Fleet Push as IGP Disu Receives CNG Buses from Trust Fund, PI-CNG

    The Nigeria Police Force has begun a shift toward cleaner energy and modern mobility after receiving three specialised buses powered by compressed natural gas, in a move authorities say will improve operations and reduce fuel costs nationwide.

    The vehicles were officially handed over on April 21, 2026, by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles, marking the first phase of a broader transition plan within the Force.

    What the rollout means

    The donation signals the start of a long-term plan to modernise the police operational fleet by gradually converting existing vehicles to compressed natural gas, a step expected to cut operational expenses and reduce environmental impact.

    Officials involved in the project said the initiative goes beyond supplying vehicles, with plans already in place to build technical capacity within the Force and ensure sustainability of the transition over time.

    They noted that the shift to alternative energy aligns with global trends in law enforcement logistics, where agencies are increasingly adopting cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions.

    IGP reacts to development

    Receiving the fleet, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, lauded the initiative as a strategic necessity. He emphasized that the shift to CNG and electric power is a visionary move that aligns the Force with global best practices in modern logistics.

    He said the introduction of CNG-powered vehicles would enhance day-to-day policing activities while easing the financial burden associated with fuel consumption across commands.

    The police chief also revealed plans to establish internal conversion centres that will enable the Force to independently maintain and upgrade its fleet, reducing reliance on external technical support.

    Push for long-term sustainability

    Stakeholders at the event stressed that the partnership between the Police Trust Fund and the PI-CNG initiative is designed to deliver long-term benefits, including lower emissions and improved fleet management systems.

    They added that continued collaboration would see more vehicles introduced and existing ones retrofitted, as part of efforts to reposition the Nigeria Police Force for modern policing demands.

    The development highlights a growing shift within public institutions toward energy-efficient solutions, especially at a time when rising fuel costs continue to strain operational budgets across sectors.

     

  • FG Files 13-Count Charge Against Sylva, Others Over Alleged Coup Plot

    The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge against former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, and six others over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, in a case now before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    The charges, bordering on treason, terrorism and money laundering, were filed on Tuesday by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.

    Who is involved

    Sylva, a former minister under the Muhammadu Buhari administration, is listed as the seventh defendant but is currently at large, with authorities expected to proceed against him in absentia if he fails to appear.

    Other defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    They are expected to be arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Breakdown of charges

    Court documents show that the 13-count charge revolves around allegations of conspiracy, failure to disclose intelligence, terrorism-related activities and financial crimes linked to terrorism financing.

    The key charges include:

    • Conspiracy to wage war against Nigeria in a bid to overawe the President
    • Failure to disclose knowledge of an alleged treason plot to authorities
    • Failure to take steps to prevent the commission of treason
    • Conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism within Nigeria
    • Participation in meetings linked to acts of terrorism
    • Providing support to individuals planning terrorist acts
    • Withholding information that could prevent or expose terrorism activities
    • Retention and handling of funds suspected to be proceeds of terrorism financing
    • Acceptance of large cash payments outside formal financial systems
    • Money laundering through bank accounts linked to alleged unlawful activities

    Financial allegations

    Specific counts detail financial transactions allegedly tied to terrorism financing, including claims that some defendants received millions of naira through bank accounts or cash payments believed to be proceeds of unlawful acts.

    These include ₦50 million allegedly traced to Bukar Kashim Goni, ₦10 million cash reportedly received by Zekeri Umoru, and smaller amounts linked to other defendants.

    Court proceedings

    The Federal Government is prosecuting the case as part of efforts to address threats to national security and uphold Nigeria’s constitutional order.

    The arraignment is expected to mark the beginning of a closely watched legal battle, given the high-profile individuals involved and the gravity of the allegations.

    Wider context

    Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, despite a history of military coups in earlier decades and recent instability in parts of West Africa.

    The case adds to growing concerns about internal security threats, as authorities intensify efforts to prevent actions that could undermine the country’s democratic system.

     

  • FG Moves to Extradite Sylva Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

    The Federal Government has begun moves to extradite former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, over his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu, as fresh details emerge in the high-profile case.

    Sylva, who is listed as the seventh defendant in the charge, is reportedly on the run and is currently being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his whereabouts and the pace of proceedings.

    Extradition plan underway

    Sources revealed that authorities have enlisted the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to help track and return the former minister to Nigeria, in a bid to ensure he faces prosecution alongside other accused persons.

    The move signals a more aggressive push by the government to bring all defendants before the court, especially those currently outside its immediate reach.

    Six defendants to face trial

    Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to arraign six other suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the same alleged coup plot, marking the next phase of the legal process.

    The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    Court proceedings begin

    The suit was filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the Federal Government, as authorities move to prosecute those linked to the alleged plot.

    All six defendants are expected to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are set to commence.

    Sylva still at large

    Despite being named in the charge, Sylva remains at large, with efforts ongoing to secure his return through international cooperation.

    The case has continued to draw attention as one of the most sensitive security-related prosecutions in recent times.

  • Wale Edun Breaks Silence Ahead of Exit as Finance Minister

    The outgoing Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has spoken out as he prepares to step down from office on Thursday, ending his tenure under President Bola Tinubu.

    Edun, in a statement, expressed gratitude to the president for the opportunity to serve since May 2023.

    What he said

    He recalled that his involvement in the administration began as head of the Presidential Transition Committee before serving as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy and later as minister.

    According to him, the government inherited significant economic challenges but implemented reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and driving growth.

    “We have worked collectively… to stabilise the macroeconomic environment and lay the foundation for inclusive growth,” he said.

    Claims on economic progress

    Edun stated that economic growth rose from about two per cent to over four per cent during his tenure.

    He also claimed that inflation declined from 35 per cent to 15 per cent, attributing the development to coordinated policies and improved investor confidence.

    He added that the progress was driven by collaboration across the Federal Executive Council, state governments and private sector partners.

    Looking ahead

    While acknowledging that more work remains, the minister expressed confidence in the country’s economic direction and wished his successor success.

    He also reaffirmed his commitment to national development beyond his time in office.