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  • Police Launch Manhunt After Gunmen Kill Two Officers in Anambra

    Two police officers were killed after suspected hoodlums attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Ben Nwankwo, along the Amansea–Ufuma Road on Sunday night.

    The attack, which occurred at about 8:30 p.m., left the government official unharmed but claimed the lives of two police operatives and affected several civilians in the area.

    Police Order Immediate Action

    Following the incident, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, directed all tactical formations and operational units to identify and arrest those responsible within 48 hours.

    The directive was issued during an emergency security meeting held at the State Police Command Headquarters.

    According to the commissioner, the attack represents a direct challenge to the authority of the state and must not go unanswered.

    “I want you to fish out the attackers and the killers of our officers. I demand immediate action to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. I want results,” he said.

    Concern Over Criminal Tactics

    Orutugu expressed concern over intelligence reports indicating that some criminal groups now disguise themselves in police and military uniforms to evade suspicion.

    He warned residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    The commissioner also stressed that criminal elements would not be allowed to continue operating under the cover of darkness.

    “This kind of killing cannot happen under my watch. We must bring the perpetrators to justice and put an end to their activities,” he added.

    Warning to Road Users

    The police chief specifically cautioned motorists travelling along the Amansea–Ufuma Road, describing it as an isolated route that has recently witnessed a rise in criminal activities.

    “The Amansea–Ufuma Road is a particularly isolated route. Commuters and members of the public should exercise caution while using the road, as it has, in recent times, become a den of criminal elements,” he said.

    Security Operations Underway

    The command said intelligence-led operations have already commenced across the state, with security agencies intensifying efforts to track down the attackers.

    Orutugu assured residents that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property and restoring confidence in public safety.

    He expressed confidence that those behind the attack would be apprehended within the timeframe set by the command.

  • Atiku Camp Rejects Babachir Lawal’s Rigging Allegation

    The camp of African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rejected allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, that the party’s presidential primary was manipulated.

    Lawal had announced his exit from the party on Monday, claiming the primary election was rigged in favour of Atiku.

    Atiku’s Aide Demands Evidence

    Responding to the allegation, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phark Shaibu, said Lawal failed to provide any evidence to support his claims.

    “Having chosen to malign a democratic process, insult thousands of ADC members nationwide, and make grave allegations without presenting a shred of evidence, it has become necessary to set the record straight,” Shaibu said.

    According to him, the primary election was conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear outcome that reflected the wishes of party members.

    “The truth is straightforward. The ADC presidential primaries were conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear and decisive outcome. What Mr Lawal has offered Nigerians is not evidence,” he added.

    Questions Over Adamawa Outcome

    Shaibu also questioned Lawal’s criticism of the process, noting that the same primary election produced a result favourable to his family in Adamawa State.

    He referenced the emergence of Omar Suleiman, described as Lawal’s cousin, as the ADC governorship candidate in the state.

    “Nigerians are entitled to ask whether the process was only credible when it favoured his family and only rigged when it produced a presidential candidate he did not support,” Shaibu said.

    Religious Allegation Dismissed

    The Atiku camp also rejected Lawal’s allegation that the former vice president was pursuing a religious agenda.

    Shaibu argued that Lawal had turned to identity politics after failing to convince party members to support his preferred candidate.

    “Having failed to persuade ADC members to embrace his preferred candidate, he now seeks refuge in the divisive politics of identity,” he said.

    He added that such arguments do not address the economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.

    2027 Election Will Be Decided by Voters

    Shaibu maintained that Atiku’s public record and business achievements remain well known to Nigerians, describing him as committed to national unity and economic reforms.

    He stressed that the outcome of the 2027 election would ultimately be determined by voters rather than post-primary disputes.

    “The 2027 election will not be decided by tantrums, ethnic dog whistles, recycled grievances, or revisionist history. It will be decided by the Nigerian people,” he said.

  • Wike Questions ADC, NDC Credibility Over Primary Election Disputes

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised opposition parties over controversies surrounding their congresses and primary elections, saying recent developments have exposed their claims of promoting internal democracy.

    Wike made the remarks during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Monday while commenting on disputes that emerged from recent exercises conducted by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Wike Questions Opposition’s Claims

    According to the former Rivers State governor, opposition parties had consistently accused larger political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of imposing candidates on members.

    He argued that the same allegations are now being directed at parties that previously presented themselves as a better alternative.

    “You hear people talk about a particular party not doing something and promise that they are going to change the pattern. You have accused the APC of imposition, the PDP of imposition,” Wike said.

    “Now you have formed a new party, a new baby, a righteous baby. The messiah, the saviour that would come, what has happened now?”

    ADC, NDC Come Under Criticism

    Wike cited disputes that followed congresses and primary elections in ADC and NDC, saying the controversies weakened their public image.

    “ADC said they are the new face of democracy; they said it’s the kind of party that has not been polluted. What has happened is so dirty,” he said.

    “See what is happening in NDC. As small as they are, they cannot do a primary without protest.”

    The minister also referred to complaints raised by aspirants during party exercises, describing them as evidence of internal problems.

    Reference to ADC Presidential Primary

    Wike specifically mentioned the ADC presidential primary, which was rejected by presidential aspirants Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen over alleged irregularities and voter disenfranchisement.

    “Look at ADC, which said it’s a coalition to take over. While the congress was going on, two presidential aspirants came to say we cannot believe this, saying it’s criminality of the highest order, which tells you who is deceiving whom,” he said.

    Preference for Established Parties

    The FCT minister said Nigerians should assess political parties based on their actions rather than campaign promises.

    “Nigerians now know that you are all liars,” he added.

    Wike maintained that older political parties, despite their shortcomings, have gained experience in managing Nigeria’s political system.

    “My assessment is that I prefer the old parties that are already there. They have tested it and know what the Nigerian culture is all about,” he said.

  • Bala Mohammed Denies Link to Jonathan 2027 Presidential Ticket

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has denied reports suggesting he is being considered as a running mate to former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The clarification follows growing online speculation linking the governor to a potential joint ticket after Jonathan was adopted as a presidential candidate by a Peoples Democratic Party faction led by Kabiru Turaki.

    Jonathan’s Candidacy Sparks Political Speculation

    Jonathan was declared the faction’s presidential candidate during a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday. Although he was absent, his Certificate of Return was received on his behalf by Bayelsa lawmaker Fred Agbedi.

    Shortly after the convention, claims emerged on social media suggesting that Bala Mohammed had been picked as a possible vice-presidential candidate.

    The speculation was further amplified by political commentary online, triggering widespread debate within opposition circles.

    Mohammed Rejects Claims

    In a statement posted on his verified X account, the Bauchi governor dismissed the reports as false and misleading.

    “Thank you for your interest in my political aspirations. However, for the sake of clarity, my focus remains firmly on contesting for the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),” he wrote.

    He urged the public to disregard any information linking him to a different political arrangement, describing such claims as speculative and inaccurate.

    Focus on Senatorial Ambition

    Mohammed also reiterated that his current political priority is the Bauchi South senatorial seat under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), following his reported departure from the Peoples Democratic Party amid internal party tensions.

    He maintained that his attention remains on his immediate political plans rather than national-level negotiations.

    The development comes amid ongoing realignments within opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Fear Grows as Abductors Threaten to Marry Off Emir’s Wives in Kwara

    Fresh anxiety has spread across Yashikira community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State after abductors reportedly threatened to marry off some wives of the Emir of Yashikira and other female captives if ransom negotiations fail.

    The threat comes days after armed attackers invaded the community, abducting several residents during coordinated assaults on the Emir’s palace and a police station.

    Abductors Demand ₦150 Million Ransom

    Security sources familiar with ongoing rescue efforts said the kidnappers are demanding about ₦150 million for the release of the victims.

    According to the sources, the abductors are seeking an estimated ₦15 million for each captive and have become increasingly frustrated over delays in payment.

    One source involved in the rescue process said the threat was communicated through contacts linked to negotiations.

    “The terrorists have threatened that if the ransom is not paid, they will marry off the Emir’s wives and other female victims to their commanders,” the source said.

    Community and Security Teams Concerned

    The source added that information about the threat had been shared with local vigilante groups and security personnel participating in intelligence-gathering efforts.

    “Everyone is worried because the abductors appear to be increasing pressure on the families and the community,” the source said.

    The development has heightened fears among residents as efforts continue to secure the release of those still in captivity.

    Attack Left Community in Shock

    The abductions followed a coordinated attack on Yashikira community in the early hours of May 24, 2026.

    Gunmen reportedly targeted both the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the palace of the Emir before abducting several residents.

    A police officer who survived the attack said the assailants overpowered security operatives with superior firepower.

    “The terrorists attacked the police station with the intention to kill all of us. They had more sophisticated weapons than us and they overpowered us before invading the Emir’s palace,” the officer said.

    He added that many officers on duty were armed mainly with pistols, while the attackers carried AK-47 rifles and arrived on motorcycles.

    Rescue Efforts Continue

    Security agencies and local vigilante groups are continuing efforts to secure the release of the victims and track down those responsible for the attack.

    The incident has added to growing concerns about insecurity in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring communities.

  • FIFA to Deploy Emergency Drones at 2026 World Cup Stadiums

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature advanced drone technology designed to improve emergency response and fan safety at stadiums across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

    The drones will be equipped with medical supplies and communication tools to assist during emergencies involving spectators and event personnel.

    Drones to Carry Emergency Medical Equipment

    According to reports, the devices will carry essential items including defibrillators, EpiPens, first aid kits and radios.

    The drones will be capable of flying directly to specific locations within stadiums, allowing emergency supplies to reach individuals in distress more quickly.

    Those near an injured or ill person will also be able to communicate with trained medical personnel using radios delivered by the drones.

    Motorola to Provide Safety Technology

    Motorola Solutions, one of the companies involved in World Cup security operations, will deploy its “Guardian” drones as part of the initiative.

    The drones have a payload capacity of up to 10 pounds, enabling them to transport emergency equipment to areas that may be difficult for medical teams to access quickly.

    The technology is expected to support existing emergency response systems at tournament venues.

    Measures Against Unauthorised Drones

    Motorola is also partnering with SkySafe, a drone detection company, to prevent unauthorised devices from entering restricted airspace around stadiums and training facilities.

    The system can detect and track suspicious drones while deploying various countermeasures when necessary.

    These include signal jamming, GPS spoofing technology that redirects drones by altering their calculated position, and lightweight nets launched by authorised drones to disable unwanted aircraft.

    Focus on Fan Safety

    The introduction of the technology reflects growing efforts by organisers to improve safety measures at major sporting events.

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and is expected to attract millions of spectators across the three countries.

  • One Dead, Teen Critical After Violence Erupts Following PSG Champions League Victory

    A football fan has died while another remains in intensive care after violence erupted in several French cities following Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League victory over Arsenal.

    The unrest was reported across Paris, Rennes, Strasbourg, Grenoble and other cities as supporters celebrated PSG’s European triumph.

    Fatality and Serious Injuries Reported

    Authorities confirmed that a 23-year-old man died after crashing his motorcycle into a concrete block during the disturbances.

    A separate police investigation has also been launched into the stabbing of a 17-year-old male near the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The teenager reportedly suffered multiple stab wounds and remains in intensive care.

    Another serious incident involved a vehicle that lost control and crashed into a restaurant terrace, leaving two people injured, one of them seriously.

    Hundreds Detained Across France

    French prosecutors said 277 people had been placed in police custody in connection with the violence, including 82 minors.

    The arrests were linked to a range of alleged offences, including attacks on police officers, theft, vandalism and public disorder.

    According to reports, some groups set fires, damaged shops and attempted to force their way into a police station in Paris.

    Police Officers Injured

    French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said 57 police officers were injured during the unrest.

    He noted that incidents were recorded in 15 cities across the country as celebrations turned violent in some areas.

    Despite the disturbances, authorities said planned celebrations for PSG’s Champions League success would proceed as scheduled at Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower.

    PSG Set for Presidential Reception

    The PSG squad is expected to continue victory celebrations with an official reception hosted by Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.

    French authorities have warned that security forces will respond firmly to any further acts of violence during the celebrations.

  • VDM’s Brother Launches Auto Dealership in China Amid Online Debate

    Macavelli, the brother of social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has launched an automobile dealership, Mac Wheels Limited, in Guangzhou, China.

    Videos and announcements shared online  showed the official unveiling of the company, which focuses on vehicle sourcing and automobile dealership services.

    Auto Business Begins Operations in Guangzhou

    Promotional videos from the launch showed Macavelli inside the company’s office in Guangzhou, interacting with clients and showcasing the dealership’s branding.

    The office featured Nigerian and Chinese flags, corporate branding, and a business setting aimed at facilitating direct vehicle imports from Chinese manufacturers to international markets, including Nigeria.

    The launch comes amid growing interest among Nigerians in sourcing vehicles directly from overseas markets due to rising automobile prices.

    Connection to VDM Draws Attention

    The development quickly attracted attention because of Macavelli’s relationship with VeryDarkMan, who has built a large following through activism and social commentary.

    Some social media users linked the launch to the Martins Vincent Otse Initiative (MVOI), a non-governmental organisation established by the activist and funded through public donations.

    Critics questioned whether any funds connected to the organisation were used to support the business venture.

    Supporters Defend Business Move

    Supporters, however, dismissed the allegations, arguing that there is no evidence linking MVOI funds to the dealership.

    They maintained that the business represents a separate family investment and pointed to VeryDarkMan’s earnings from content creation, brand influence, and other disclosed ventures.

    Others argued that entrepreneurship should not be viewed negatively simply because it involves public figures or activists.

    No Official Investigation Reported

    As of the time of reporting, there have been no official investigations or public reports linking the dealership to funds raised through the MVOI initiative.

    The launch has nevertheless generated widespread discussion online, with opinions divided between those seeking greater transparency and those celebrating the business expansion.

    The conversation continues across social media platforms as Nigerians debate celebrity activism, philanthropy accountability, and business ownership.

  • Tinubu Condoles Oyo Victims, Vows Safe Return of Abducted Pupils

    President Bola Tinubu has expressed sympathy with families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring them that efforts to secure the victims’ release will continue.

    In a statement released on Monday, the President said no child should be taken from the safety of a classroom, as concern grows over the May 15 attack on communities in Esiele and Yawota.

    Tinubu Commiserates With Families

    The President said he shares in the pain and anxiety of affected families following the abduction, which has attracted nationwide attention and renewed concerns about school security.

    “No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu said.

    He also extended condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher killed during the attack.

    “I also extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” he added.

    FG Promises Sustained Rescue Efforts

    Tinubu assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue coordinated efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the operation will be intelligence-driven and supported by both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.

    “Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.

    High-Level Delegation Visits Communities

    The President’s statement comes after a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

    The visit followed renewed calls for urgent action as families continue to await the release of the victims.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier visited the communities and assured residents that his administration would take all lawful measures to secure the release of those still in captivity.

  • DSS Arrests Two Foreign Nationals, Three Others Over Niger School Attack

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested five suspected arms couriers, including two foreign nationals from Niger Republic, over their alleged involvement in the November 2025 attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.

    The attack led to the abduction of nearly 300 students and staff, making it one of the most severe mass kidnapping incidents in the state.

    Arrests and weapons recovery

    Security sources said the suspects were arrested during intelligence-led operations that also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons, including 15 AK-103 rifles, 15 magazines, and 1,434 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

    Among those arrested were Yusuf Mohammed, also known as Bature, reportedly on the wanted list of Boko Haram, and his associate, Mubarak Ibrahim.

    The duo was intercepted along the Zaria–Kaduna Highway while allegedly en route to collect arms for terrorist commanders.

    Cross-border arms network uncovered

    Further operations led to the arrest of Goni Ibrahim, identified as an international arms courier from the Diffa Region of Niger Republic, alongside another suspect linked to the network.

    Security operatives also arrested another suspect, Alhaji Adamu, popularly known as Gado Banufe, in Yauri, Kebbi State, over alleged arms supply activities.

    Investigations suggest the suspects played key roles in supplying weapons used in the Papiri school attack.

    Background of the attack

    On November 21, 2025, armed men stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School in the early hours, abducting students and teachers after shooting sporadically.

    About 50 pupils reportedly escaped during the attack, while over 250 were taken into the Kainji Lake National Park forest.

    Authorities later confirmed that all abducted victims were rescued and reunited with their families in December 2025 after weeks in captivity.

    Security response

    The latest arrests are expected to strengthen ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle arms trafficking networks and prosecute those linked to the attack.

    Officials say investigations are ongoing as authorities continue tracking cross-border supply routes used by criminal groups.