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  • Oyo Government Demolishes Building Linked to Adelabu Family Kidnapping Investigation

    The Oyo State Government has demolished a three-bedroom bungalow in the Lako Community along the Aiyegun–Anaye Road axis of Ibadan over its alleged connection to an ongoing kidnapping investigation in the state.

    The demolition was carried out on Monday by officials of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, alongside operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Property Linked to Kidnapping Probe

    According to the government, the building was identified during investigations into the abduction of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.

    The victims were reportedly kidnapped at Elewura in the Challenge area of Ibadan on June 3, 2026.

    Authorities said the property was allegedly used in connection with the operation being investigated by security agencies.

    Government Moves Against Criminal Hideouts

    The state government said the action is part of ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.

    Officials explained that the demolition was intended to disrupt criminal networks and prevent further use of such structures for illegal activities.

    The government also reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies in their operations to rescue victims and apprehend suspects.

    Commitment to Rule of Law

    The government stressed that properties found to be linked to criminal activities will be dealt with in line with lawful procedures where applicable.

    It added that the demolition reflects its broader strategy to strengthen internal security and curb rising cases of abduction in parts of the state.

    The incident comes amid heightened security operations following recent kidnapping cases reported across Ibadan and surrounding communities.

  • Tinubu Declares Nigeria Will Not Bow to Terrorists, Bandits

    President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will not succumb to terrorism, banditry or criminal intimidation despite ongoing security challenges across the country.

    The president’s message was delivered by George Akume during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

    Tinubu Acknowledges Nigerians’ Hardships

    The service brought together government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries to commemorate 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.

    Speaking on behalf of the president, Akume said the government was fully aware of the economic and security difficulties confronting many Nigerians.

    He noted that the administration understood the impact of kidnappings, displacement, insecurity and rising economic pressures on families across the country.

    “Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said while conveying the president’s message.

    According to him, the government remains committed to addressing the challenges with compassion and responsibility.

    Commitment to Security

    Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to tackle criminal groups and improve security nationwide.

    The president maintained that the government would continue efforts to protect lives and property while confronting threats posed by terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

    His remarks come amid growing public concern over insecurity in several parts of the country, including recent kidnappings and attacks on communities.

    Tribute to Democracy Heroes

    The president also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists who played key roles in the June 12 struggle.

    He acknowledged the sacrifices made by many Nigerians who faced persecution, injuries and loss of life in the fight for democratic governance.

    The Democracy Day service formed part of events marking Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

  • Tinubu Recalls When Pastor Adeboye Called Him ‘Father of the Nation’

    An old video of President Bola Tinubu recounting an encounter with Enoch Adeboye has resurfaced online, drawing fresh attention on social media.

    In the clip, Tinubu recalled how the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) leader allegedly referred to him as the “father of the nation.”

    Tinubu Recounts Conversation With Adeboye

    The video showed Tinubu addressing members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other Christian leaders during a meeting in Kano State.

    While speaking, the president narrated an occasion when his wife was ordained as a pastor in RCCG and Pastor Adeboye gave him a biblical name.

    “The day my wife was ordained Pastor in the Redeemed Church, I was there. Pastor Adeboye gave me Abraham, I said what is the meaning? He said watch out, the father of nation,” Tinubu said.

    Video Gains Attention Online

    The clip has gained traction online after being shared widely across social media platforms.

    Many users have revisited the remarks, with reactions emerging from supporters and critics of the president.

    The resurfaced footage comes at a time when national conversations remain focused on economic challenges, rising living costs and security concerns across parts of the country.

    Renewed Focus on Past Remarks

    Although the video is not recent, its circulation has reignited discussions around Tinubu’s relationship with prominent religious leaders and comments made before and after his emergence as president.

    Neither the Presidency nor RCCG had issued any statement regarding the renewed circulation of the video as of the time of filing this report.

     

  • Emir of Argungu Urges Nigerians to Legally Arm Themselves for Self-Defence Against Bandits

    The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila-Mera, has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of communities within his emirate, to legally acquire arms and strengthen local vigilance as part of efforts to defend themselves against persistent attacks by bandits and other criminal groups.

    The monarch made the appeal during a meeting with district, village and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, Kebbi State.

    Call for Community Self-Defence

    The Emir said communities must remain alert and take proactive steps to protect themselves, noting that insecurity has left many areas vulnerable.

    He also suggested that communities could collectively raise funds to purchase legally approved weapons for self-defence.

    “If you acquire such weapons legally, make sure the bandits are aware that your community possesses the means to defend itself. This alone can serve as a deterrent and discourage attacks,” he said.

    He stressed that the worsening security situation required stronger local involvement in protecting lives and property.

    ‘Islam Does Not Encourage Helplessness’ — Emir

    The traditional ruler said it was wrong for communities to remain passive in the face of repeated attacks.

    “It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens, and rape our women. Be prepared to defend yourselves, your families, and your communities against any attack,” he stated.

    He, however, expressed concern that many communities had become easy targets because they lacked adequate means of defence.

    According to him, cases of bandit attacks often leave residents fleeing, including community leaders, due to poor security preparedness.

    Warning Against Revenge and Ethnic Violence

    The Emir clarified that his position was not an endorsement of lawlessness or ethnic violence, but a call for lawful self-defence within legal limits.

    He warned against revenge attacks, stressing that such actions often fuel cycles of violence and deepen insecurity.

    He also noted that while some armed groups had left parts of the area, criminal elements still operate in collaboration with other networks, posing continued threats to residents.

    The monarch urged communities to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold lawful conduct in responding to security challenges.

  • Schoolchildren Appeal to Tinubu Over Rising Insecurity in Viral Video

    A group of private schoolchildren has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to tackle the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, expressing concern over the safety of citizens across the country.

    The appeal was contained in a video that has gained attention on social media, where the children addressed the President directly and called for urgent action.

    Children Seek Government Intervention

    In the video, the pupils said Nigerians are looking up to the President to address the growing security challenges affecting communities nationwide.

    They urged the government to show compassion and take meaningful steps to improve the safety of lives and property.

    According to the children, many citizens are worried about the current security situation and hope for a safer environment.

    Call for a Safer Nigeria

    The pupils also spoke about their desire to grow up in a country where people can live without fear.

    They appealed to the authorities to prioritise security and ensure that children, families and communities are protected from violence and criminal activities.

    The video has continued to circulate online as conversations around insecurity remain a major national concern.

    Growing Concerns Over Security

    The appeal comes amid increasing public concern over recent cases of kidnappings, attacks on schools and violent crimes reported in different parts of the country.

    Security has remained a key issue in national discussions, with citizens and stakeholders repeatedly calling for stronger measures to protect lives and restore public confidence.

    As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Presidency regarding the children’s appeal.

  • MURIC Urges South-West Governors to Arm Amotekun, OPC Against Kidnappers

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on governors in the South-West to urgently strengthen and equip local security outfits, including Amotekun and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), to combat growing cases of kidnapping and violent crime across the region.

    The group said immediate action is needed to prevent criminal gangs from becoming more entrenched in communities.

    MURIC Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Friday, MURIC Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, warned that insecurity in the South-West is worsening and requires a stronger local response.

    He urged state governments to treat community-based security groups as frontline responders and provide them with the resources needed to tackle banditry and abductions.

    The call follows recent attacks in the region, including the abduction of dozens of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Call for More Support for Local Security Groups

    Akintola said security outfits such as Amotekun, OPC and other local networks should be empowered to improve their effectiveness.

    “MURIC advises South-West governments to prepare vigilante groups as first responders. Groups like the Oduduwa Peoples Congress (OPC) and Iru Ekun should be empowered in order to halt the advance of bandits,” he stated.

    He also called for increased recruitment into the Amotekun Corps to strengthen its operational capacity.

    “More personnel should be recruited into the Amotekun Corps for effectiveness,” he added.

    Appeal to Yoruba Muslims and Christians

    The organisation urged Yoruba Muslims to draw inspiration from Islamic teachings in confronting criminal elements.

    Quoting passages from the Qur’an, Akintola encouraged communities not to surrender to fear in the face of insecurity.

    “MURIC charges Yoruba Muslims to take inspiration from the Glorious Qur’an on the need to confront bandits,” he said.

    The group extended the appeal to Yoruba Christians, encouraging them to adopt a similar determination against criminal groups operating within the region.

    Demand for Stronger Response

    According to MURIC, kidnappers and bandits often thrive when communities are unable to resist them.

    “We encourage Yoruba Christians to replicate this approach to criminality in the region. Bandits have a field day when we turn and run. But they don’t like confrontation,” the statement said.

    “We must therefore meet their force with force, bullet for bullet, stratagem for stratagem. There must be a balance of terror if we are going to succeed in stopping these hoodlums.”

    Akintola maintained that expanding Amotekun’s manpower and strengthening local security networks would improve intelligence gathering and response efforts in communities facing increasing security threats.

  • Gunmen Abduct Pastor’s Nine-Year-Old Son During Ondo Community Attack

    A nine-year-old boy, Victor Olaosebikan, has been abducted by armed men who invaded Igbosi Community in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State in the early hours of Friday.

    The attack triggered panic in the community as the gunmen reportedly fired several gunshots before storming residential buildings.

    Pastor’s Son Taken During Raid

    According to reports, the attackers forced their way into the residence of Mr. Olaosebikan Isaac, a pastor in the community.

    Isaac reportedly escaped into a nearby bush during the attack, but his son, Victor, was left behind and was taken away by the gunmen.

    The incident has heightened fears among residents over growing security concerns in the area.

    Another Resident Escapes

    A resident, Mr. Joel Owalekan, also recounted how the armed men attempted to break into his home.

    He said the attackers vandalised parts of the building while trying to gain access, but he managed to escape unharmed after fleeing the area.

    No casualties were reported during the attack.

    Police, Amotekun Launch Rescue Operation

    Confirming the incident, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the matter was reported to security authorities at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday.

    He stated that police officers and operatives of the Amotekun Corps immediately launched a joint operation to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the attackers.

    “Upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer and his men, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, immediately mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation,” Jimoh said.

    “Security operatives combed the surrounding forests and likely escape routes in a bid to rescue the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.”

    Investigation Ongoing

    The police spokesperson disclosed that investigations have commenced, while relevant exhibits recovered from the scene have been documented to aid ongoing efforts.

    He appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in locating the abducted boy and tracking down the suspects.

    Residents were urged to report any credible information to the nearest police station or security agency.

  • NBA Raises Concern Over ‘Excessive’ Bail Conditions Across Nigeria

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over what it described as the increasing use of excessive and unrealistic bail conditions by courts and law enforcement agencies, warning that the practice undermines the constitutional rights of accused persons.

    NBA President, Afam Osigwe, made the position known in a statement, stressing that bail is meant to guarantee a defendant’s appearance in court and should not become a tool for punishment before trial.

    NBA Warns Against Indirect Denial of Bail

    Osigwe said the association has observed several cases where defendants are granted bail but are subjected to conditions that are difficult or impossible to meet.

    According to him, some courts require sureties who are senior civil servants on Grade Levels 16 or 17, while others demand landed properties worth hundreds of millions of naira.

    “Bail is neither a punishment nor a mechanism for imposing pre-trial incarceration by indirect means,” he said.

    He argued that such conditions effectively amount to a denial of bail because many defendants cannot fulfil the requirements despite receiving court orders granting their release.

    Association Cites Court Decisions

    The NBA referenced previous judicial decisions supporting its position on reasonable bail conditions.

    It cited the Supreme Court judgment in Suleman & Anor v. Commissioner of Police, Plateau State, where the court held that bail exists to secure pre-trial freedom and should not create impossible obstacles for defendants.

    The association also referred to Dasuki v. Director-General, State Security Service, in which the Court of Appeal criticised the practice of demanding serving public officers as sureties, describing the requirement as unrealistic and inconsistent with public service rules.

    Call for Compliance With ACJA

    Osigwe reminded judges and judicial officers that Section 165(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, expressly provides that bail conditions must not be excessive.

    He urged courts across the country to ensure that bail requirements remain fair, reasonable and achievable.

    According to the NBA president, any bail condition that cannot reasonably be met by an accused person is, in practical terms, a refusal of bail.

    The association called for greater adherence to constitutional principles and judicial precedents in the administration of criminal justice across Nigeria.

     

  • Grenada Announces Visa-Free Entry for Nigerians, Seeks Stronger Trade Ties

    The Consulate of Grenada in Nigeria has announced visa-free entry for Nigerian passport holders, a move aimed at boosting trade, tourism, investment and business relations between both countries.

    The announcement was made by Grenada’s Consul to Nigeria, Ambassador Abidemi Sonoiki, during an interactive session with journalists on Thursday.

    Grenada Targets Nigerian Investors

    Sonoiki described Grenada as a strategic destination for Nigerian entrepreneurs and investors seeking opportunities beyond the African continent.

    According to him, a new economic corridor is emerging between Africa and the Caribbean, creating fresh opportunities for business expansion and cross-border partnerships.

    “Today, Grenada presents a compelling opportunity for Nigerian investors and entrepreneurs looking to access new markets beyond Africa,” he said.

    “We are witnessing the emergence of a strategic economic corridor between Africa and the Caribbean, one that offers immense opportunities for trade, investment, tourism, education and business growth.”

    Awaiting Nigeria’s Response

    The envoy disclosed that Grenada has already approved visa-free access for Nigerians and is awaiting reciprocal action from the Nigerian government through diplomatic channels.

    He said removing visa restrictions would make it easier for business owners, investors and professionals to explore opportunities in both countries.

    “Visa-free access removes a significant barrier to engagement. It enables Nigerian investors, business owners and professionals to explore opportunities in Grenada more easily and creates a stronger foundation for commercial cooperation,” Sonoiki stated.

    Direct Flights Under Discussion

    Sonoiki also revealed that discussions are ongoing to establish direct air links between Nigeria and the Caribbean within the next six months.

    He noted that improved connectivity would significantly enhance trade, tourism and investment flows between both regions.

    “Connectivity is one of the most important enablers of economic growth. Establishing direct links between Nigeria and the Caribbean would unlock enormous opportunities for trade, investment and tourism while positioning Grenada as a strategic gateway for African businesses seeking access to Caribbean markets,” he said.

    Opportunities Beyond Large Investors

    The consul stressed that the initiative is not limited to major investors but also targets entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and small business owners looking to expand internationally.

    He encouraged Nigerians to view Grenada as more than a tourist destination, describing the Caribbean nation as a platform for business growth and regional market access.

    “We want Nigerian investors to see Grenada not simply as a Caribbean destination, but as a strategic business platform,” he added.

     

  • Some Nigerians Reportedly Drop Bank Account Details for Bandits During Alleged TikTok “Giveaway”

    Some Nigerians have reportedly shared their bank account details with suspected bandits during a TikTok live session, in hopes of receiving part of money allegedly linked to kidnapping ransom payments across the country.

    The development was disclosed on X (formerly Twitter) by business analyst Bolaji Fesomade, who claimed that some individuals openly submitted their account numbers to be credited during the live interaction.

    Alleged TikTok “Giveaway” Raises Concern

    Fesomade alleged that a suspected bandit conducted a TikTok live session where users were invited to drop account details, with some reportedly receiving funds said to be part of ransom proceeds.

    He warned that such actions could attract scrutiny from security agencies, noting that funds traced to criminal activity could lead to arrests and prosecution.

    “The average citizen enables crime. When DSS traces his funds to you, expect arrest & jail time alongside him,” he wrote.

    Mixed Reactions on Social Media

    Another user, identified as Danny of Owerri, supported the claim, alleging that the individuals involved were informed that the money being shared came from kidnapping ransom.

    He said this did not stop some users from still submitting their account details for payment.

    A legal practitioner, Foundational Egi Nupe, also expressed concern, questioning the reported incident and describing it as alarming if true.

    Backlash and Hardship Debate

    The alleged incident has triggered mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians condemning the behaviour and calling for security agencies to track those involved.

    Others argued that economic hardship may be pushing citizens into desperate actions, while urging caution in judging those involved without full verification.

    Verification Not Established

    As of press time, the claims remain unverified, with no confirmed video evidence of the alleged TikTok live widely available. Checks referenced in the report did not produce independent footage of the incident.

    However, there are circulating claims on social media suggesting that such interactions may have taken place, though details remain unclear.