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  • ISWAP Claims Series of Deadly Attacks on Nigerian Forces, Alleges Coordinated Strikes Across Borders

    The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a wave of attacks targeting Nigerian security forces and neighbouring countries, detailing coordinated operations involving explosives, ambushes, and assaults on military and police positions.

    ISWAP details alleged attacks on troops

    The claims were published in Arabic and later translated into English, with copies circulating on social media platform X on Thursday.

    According to the group, its fighters executed multiple operations using roadside bombs and ambush tactics against security convoys and checkpoints.

    One of the key claims involved an attack on a military patrol in northern Nigeria.

    “What actually happened was that the roadside bomb exploded directly on the patrol, causing the death of seven soldiers, including an officer with the rank of Major, wounding others, and destroying a four-wheel-drive vehicle,” the statement read.

    Ambush operations and cross-border claims

    ISWAP also claimed it carried out an attack on an army position near a town’s outskirts, allegedly designed to lure troops into an ambush.

    The group further alleged attacks on police officers and local militia members, saying dozens were killed across operations in Nigeria and neighbouring Niger Republic.

    It also referenced an attack on a checkpoint at the entrance of Rifa city in Niger Republic, claiming casualties and destruction of military equipment.

    “11 attacks in one week” — group claims escalation

    The publication claimed that at least 11 attacks were carried out within one week, resulting in 42 vehicles being burned or disabled.

    Beyond West Africa, ISWAP also included claims of attacks in Syria, including an alleged strike on a government vehicle near Raqqa.

    Allegations against Nigerian military

    The group accused Nigerian troops of carrying out retaliatory actions against civilian communities near Monguno, describing them as “desperate and uncivilised steps… to cover up its repeated failures and heavy losses.”

    Security caution over claims

    Security analysts have urged caution over the reports, warning that insurgent groups often exaggerate operational success for propaganda purposes.

    A security source told Punch that such statements should be treated carefully, noting that terrorist organisations frequently rely on misinformation and psychological warfare to shape public perception.

  • Wike Storms PDP Secretariat As Fresh Tension Hits Party Leadership Crisis

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Friday visited the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, amid ongoing leadership crisis rocking the opposition party.

    Wike’s visit raises fresh questions

    Wike was received at the secretariat by the PDP National Secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu.

    His visit comes at a time when the party remains deeply divided, with unresolved disputes over its leadership structure and control of the national headquarters.

    Crisis that shook PDP headquarters

    The PDP crisis escalated on November 18, when rival factions clashed at Wadata Plaza, leading to a breakdown of order at the party’s headquarters.

    The faction led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN), backed by Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, confronted the Mohammed-led group believed to be aligned with Wike.

    The situation has since remained tense, with both sides laying claim to party leadership.

    Dispute over control of secretariat

    The unsealing and takeover of the secretariat was confirmed by the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led National Working Committee through its spokesperson, Jungudo Mohammed.

    The faction warned against any attempt to disrupt peace, while also commending the Nigeria Police Force for what it described as professionalism and respect for the rule of law.

    Opposition faction kicks

    However, the Turaki-led faction rejected the development, describing the unsealing as contempt of court.

    Spokesman Ini Ememobong argued that the judgment cited had already been appealed, warning that the move could undermine ongoing legal proceedings.

    The latest development signals that the PDP leadership crisis is far from over, as rival factions continue to battle for control of the party.

  • Court Grants Blord Bail Amid Allegations Of Police Misconduct, Video Leak Scandal

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Williams Ifejirika, popularly known as Blord, after days of uncertainty surrounding his detention.

    The decision, which has attracted widespread attention, comes amid allegations of misconduct by security operatives handling his case.

    Court grants bail with conditions

    Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed the development on Friday, stating that the court approved bail on self-recognisance.

    He added that the defendant is required to submit his international passport as part of the bail conditions.

    “Bail has been granted… on self-recognizance. The court, however, ordered that he deposit his international passport,” Sowore said.

    Earlier, Sowore had indicated he was present in court during the hearing, expressing cautious optimism about the outcome.

    Allegations trail detention process

    The case has been overshadowed by claims of misconduct involving officers of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly those attached to the National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja.

    Some officers have been accused of abusing their authority and mishandling the detention process.

    Reports also alleged that a video recorded during Blord’s detention was leaked to social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan.

    Claims of leaked and staged footage

    Sources claimed the video was shared deliberately to humiliate the businessman, raising concerns about professionalism within the force.

    “One of the officers… leaked a detention video… for the sole purpose of humiliating him,” a police source alleged.

    There were also claims that parts of the footage may have been staged, with officers reportedly creating scenes inside the detention facility.

    Another source described the incident as “cruelty, intimidation, and collusion.”

    Transfer to Kuje prison

    The situation reportedly shifted after the court declined to remand Blord at the NCCC facility, instead ordering his transfer to Kuje Correctional Centre.

    Sources said this move disrupted alleged plans tied to the earlier handling of his detention.

    Eyewitness accounts also claimed that VeryDarkMan followed the prison van conveying Blord to Kuje while livestreaming the movement online.

    Public scrutiny grows

    The case continues to generate reactions, with growing calls for accountability and transparency in how high-profile detainees are treated.

     

     

     

  • Pastor Bags Life Jail for Raping Church Member’s Daughter

    A 63-year-old cleric, Chris Douglas, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja for raping a church member’s daughter.

    What happened

    Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Rahman Oshodi held that Douglas, the General Overseer of Peculiar Generation Assembly Church, Oshodi, grossly abused his position of spiritual authority and trust to exploit the victim.

    “The convict occupied a position of spiritual authority and was regarded as a father figure by the victim and her family,” the judge said.

    Instead of protecting that trust, the judge added, Douglas “betrayed it in the most reprehensible manner.”

    The court heard that the abuse took place in a hotel on several occasions while the victim and her family looked up to the cleric for spiritual guidance.

    Victim’s trauma

    Justice Oshodi noted that the victim suffered severe psychological trauma as a direct result of the abuse.

    “The court accepts the evidence that the victim suffered depression and recurring suicidal thoughts as a direct consequence of the convict’s actions,” he said.

    Prosecution’s case

    The prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecution Dr Babajide Martins, called five witnesses, including the victim, her mother, and a medical doctor.

    The victim testified that Douglas drugged and raped her in September 2017.

    “I trusted him like a spiritual father. I never imagined he could do this to me,” she told the court.

    Her mother recounted confronting the cleric at his church, where he allegedly cried and blamed the devil before begging for forgiveness in the presence of church elders.

    The matter was later reported to a human rights organisation, the police at Makinde Division, and the Mirabel Centre for medical examination.

    Defence and court ruling

    Douglas denied the allegations, claiming the relationship was consensual.

    However, Justice Oshodi rejected the consent defence, ruling that the prosecution proved rape beyond reasonable doubt.

    “The defence of consent is not supported by the totality of the evidence before the court,” the judge held.

    The court discharged Douglas on six counts of defilement and sexual assault but found him guilty on three counts of rape.

    Sentence

    Justice Oshodi sentenced the convict to life imprisonment on each of the three counts, with the sentences to run concurrently.

    “The law must protect the vulnerable, and this court will not hesitate to punish abuse of trust in the strongest terms,” the judge said.

    The court also ordered that Douglas’ name be entered into the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.

    This is a clear case of betrayal of trust by someone who was supposed to provide spiritual leadership. The judgment has sparked discussions on the need for stricter oversight in religious institutions.

  • FG Moves Credential Verification Online, Ends Physical Visits Nationwide

    The Federal Government has fully digitised the authentication and evaluation of academic credentials, directing all applicants to process requests online as part of efforts to improve transparency and service delivery in Nigeria’s education sector.

    How the new system works

    In a statement dated April 15, 2026, the Federal Ministry of Education said all applications will now be handled strictly through its official verification portal.

    Applicants are required to register and upload relevant documents via the platform, while academic transcripts must be sent directly by institutions through official email channels for verification.

    End of physical verification

    The ministry made it clear that applicants no longer need to visit its offices for physical verification, as the entire process has been automated.

    Officials say the shift is designed to simplify procedures, reduce delays, and improve data integrity across the system.

    Why the change was introduced

    According to the ministry, the move aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda and aims to enhance efficiency, ensure data accuracy, and support evidence-based decision-making in the education sector.

    What applicants should know

    Applicants have been advised to strictly follow the new guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

    The ministry also provided official communication channels for enquiries, stressing the need for compliance to ensure smooth and timely verification.

    What it means going forward

    Authorities say the transition to a fully digital platform is expected to strengthen the credibility of academic credential verification in Nigeria, while reducing bottlenecks that previously affected the process.

    Screenshot

  • Bandits Abduct JAMB Candidates, Other Passengers in Benue Night Attack

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits have abducted several passengers, including candidates heading for the ongoing JAMB examination, after attacking a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State.

    Attack on night journey

    The incident occurred on Wednesday night when the bus, travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo, was ambushed near its destination.

    Passengers on board were reportedly young men and women heading to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination scheduled for Thursday.

    A source said the vehicle, carrying about 18 passengers, was waylaid around 8pm, with most occupants taken into the bush.

    “Two people, the driver and one passenger, managed to escape. Incidentally, the passengers were mainly young men and women going to write JAMB,” the source said.

    Police confirm abduction

    The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the attack, stating that 14 passengers were abducted while one victim escaped.

    He said security operatives had launched a rescue operation and were already combing the area.

    “I am in Otukpo now with my team, heading the operation. Fourteen passengers were kidnapped, and one escaped,” he said.

    Investigation underway

    The police also revealed that the journey may have violated transport regulations, noting that Benue Links has a policy against night travel.

    According to the commissioner, the driver allegedly picked up passengers after official hours, a development now under investigation.

    “But as we are investigating, we are on the ground to make sure that the victims are rescued,” he added.

    Local authorities react

    Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the attack and said security operatives had been deployed into nearby forests.

    “The victims are mainly young boys and girls coming to Otukpo to write JAMB,” he said.

    Rising insecurity on route

    The Makurdi-Otukpo road has witnessed repeated attacks in recent months, raising concerns among travellers and residents over growing insecurity in the area.

    The latest incident adds to fears around the safety of commuters, especially students travelling for national examinations.

  • 744 Repentant Terrorists Graduate from FG De-radicalisation Programme, Face Fresh Debate Over Reintegration

    A total of 744 repentant terrorists and victims of violent extremism have graduated from the Federal Government’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor, reigniting national debate over Nigeria’s strategy for handling former insurgents.

    What happened

    The graduation ceremony was held on Thursday in Gombe State, where military officials and government representatives confirmed the completion of the programme by the 744 participants drawn from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

    A breakdown shows the majority, 597 participants, are from Borno State, while others came from Yobe, Adamawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Plateau, and several other states.

    Foreign nationals from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, and the Niger Republic were also part of the cohort.

    Military explains programme

    The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the initiative as a strategic security tool rather than a reward for violence.

    Represented by Rear Admiral Kabiru Tanimu, he said the programme addresses the root causes of extremism while supporting long-term peacebuilding efforts.

    “This is not a reward but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, weaken extremist recruitment and promote long-term stability,” he said.

    He added that while military operations remain essential, rehabilitation and reintegration are necessary for sustainable peace.

    Training and rehabilitation process

    Officials said participants underwent extensive rehabilitation, including psychosocial therapy, vocational training, civic education, religious reorientation, and behavioural reform.

    According to Brig. Gen. Yusuf Ali, the programme is designed not just for disengagement, but for rebuilding identity and reintegration into society.

    “Some were abducted, others were forced, and many were drawn into the conflict due to circumstances beyond their control,” he said.

    Call for community support

    Authorities stressed that reintegration will require cooperation from state governments, communities, and families.

    The Defence Headquarters warned that acceptance and monitoring of the graduates will be critical to sustaining peace gains.

    “Nigeria is giving you a second chance; do not waste it,” the CDS told the graduates.

    Concerns and criticism

    Despite government backing, Operation Safe Corridor has continued to face criticism from sections of the public and political figures.

    Critics argue that some beneficiaries may return to insurgency, raising concerns about national security and accountability in the programme.

    Senator Adams Oshiomhole has previously called for the suspension of the initiative, citing fears of recidivism among repentant fighters.

    Wider security context

    The programme was introduced as part of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency strategy in the North-East, combining military action with non-kinetic approaches aimed at reducing radicalisation and encouraging reintegration.

    While supporters say it helps weaken extremist recruitment networks, debates continue over its long-term effectiveness in addressing insecurity.

  • Court Orders Arrest of Ex-Minister Sadiya Farouq, Permanent Secretary Over Alleged ₦2.4bn Fraud

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, over alleged involvement in a ₦2.4 billion fraud case linked to public funds.

    What happened

    Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie issued the arrest order on Thursday, April 16, 2026, following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting the defendants on a 21-count charge bordering on alleged breach of trust, abuse of office, and diversion of funds.

    The third defendant in the case, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present in court when the proceedings took place.

    EFCC’s argument in court

    EFCC counsel Rotimi Jacobs told the court that the first and second defendants had repeatedly failed to appear in court despite being served.

    “They were served, my lord, but failed to appear. Only the third defendant reported when his surety was contacted,” he said.

    Jacobs also informed the court that Farouq had previously been granted permission to travel abroad for medical treatment but had not returned her passport or submitted any medical report.

    “Since that passport was released, she has not returned it. We do not have any medical report till date,” he added.

    Defence plea rejected

    Counsel to the former minister, Abdul Ibrahim, told the court that her absence was due to ill health and attempted to submit an affidavit in support of the claim.

    However, the court declined the application.

    The defence also requested a six-week extension to produce the defendants in court, but the prosecution opposed the request, insisting on stricter enforcement.

    Court’s ruling

    Ruling on the matter, Justice Onwuegbuzie granted the EFCC’s application and issued a bench warrant for the arrest of both Farouq and Alkali.

    The judge subsequently adjourned the case to May 18, 2026, for arraignment and trial.

    Allegations against defendants

    According to the charge sheet, the defendants are accused of diverting funds linked to the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office, including money meant for refunds from contractors.

    One of the counts alleges that excess payments meant for beneficiary validation were allegedly converted for personal use.

    The alleged offences are said to contravene provisions of Nigeria’s Penal Code.

    Background

    Sadiya Umar Farouq served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs from 2019 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, and has remained under investigation over financial activities linked to the ministry’s programmes.

  • Bandits Kill, Kidnap Several in Coordinated Attacks Across Kwara Communities

    Suspected bandits have killed several residents and abducted others in coordinated late-night attacks on three rural communities in Isin and Ifelodun local government areas of Kwara State, deepening security concerns in the region.

    How the attacks unfolded

    The attacks occurred on Wednesday night, targeting Iwo Odo-Ore in Isin LGA, as well as Gaa-Idera and Gaa Dembo-Agunjin in Ifelodun LGA.

    Residents said the gunmen stormed the communities simultaneously, shooting sporadically and abducting victims during the raids.

    In Gaa-Odera, at least two people were shot while two others were kidnapped.

    Heavy abductions reported

    The violence was more intense in Iwo Odo-Ore, where at least five residents were abducted, including a prominent figure, Alhaji Yusuf Yunusa, alongside four Hausa residents.

    Sources described Yusuf as a well-known politician in the area and a school proprietor with interests in both Kwara and Lagos.

    He was reportedly preparing for a family Islamic ceremony before the attack.

    Wedding disrupted in Ifelodun

    In Ifelodun LGA, bandits abducted six people in Gaa Dembo-Agunjin and two others in Gaa-Idera.

    The victims reportedly included family members linked to a wedding scheduled for Thursday.

    “They kidnapped the bride’s mother and one other person,” a source said, adding that cattle were also rustled during the attack.

    Casualties and injuries

    Residents said the attackers opened fire during the عملیات, leaving at least two people injured.

    “One person was hit in the hand by a bullet,” a source confirmed.

    The number of those killed has not been officially verified, but multiple sources insist casualties were recorded.

    Authorities yet to respond

    As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not issued an official statement on the attacks.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over rising banditry and insecurity in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring regions.

  • Police Foil IED Attack Plot in Ondo, Arrest Six Suspects in Akure

    The Ondo State Police Command has foiled a planned attack involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) targeting government infrastructure in Akure and other parts of the state, arresting six suspects during a swift intelligence-led operation.

    How the operation unfolded

    Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected criminal syndicate.

    Acting on the tip-off, operatives were deployed to a strategic location in Akure, where the suspects were intercepted before carrying out the planned attacks.

    The arrests and recovery were made on April 15, 2026.

    What police recovered

    A search of the scene and the suspects’ residence led to the recovery of several items believed to be linked to the planned operation.

    Recovered exhibits include 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, criminal charms, 17 mobile phones, ₦187,000 cash, two HP laptops, eight slings, a knife, an external hard drive, identity cards, a National Identity Number card, and two motorcycles.

    Police said some of the items are suspected components for assembling explosive devices.

    What investigators found

    Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects were actively involved in assembling IEDs intended for attacks on government facilities.

    Authorities also revealed that the group’s operations may not be limited to Ondo State, raising concerns about a wider network.

    “Early findings show the group was engaged in assembling IEDs for deployment on government infrastructure,” Lawal said.

    Security concerns

    The development highlights ongoing security threats across parts of the country, with authorities continuing to monitor activities of criminal groups operating across state lines.

    The police command said it remains committed to preventing attacks and protecting lives and property.

    Police assurance to residents

    CP Lawal urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.

    He assured that sustained operations are underway to dismantle criminal networks and prevent further threats in the state.