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Tag: Insecurity

  • Gunmen Attack Ekiti Church, Kill Pastor, Abduct Worshippers During Crusade

    Gunmen have attacked a church in Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during an open-air crusade in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred Tuesday evening, has thrown the community into panic.

    Residents said the attackers stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) venue on the outskirts of the town and opened fire before taking some worshippers into a nearby forest.

    Pastor Killed as Worshippers Taken Into Forest

    Sources within the community said the assailants arrived in large numbers and were heavily armed. During the attack, the pastor was shot dead while several others were forcefully taken away.

    A resident, who spoke anonymously, said efforts were ongoing to determine the number of abducted victims. “They were many. They killed the pastor and took some worshippers. We are still trying to know how many are missing,” the source said.

    Security Operatives Launch Rescue Efforts

    A government official familiar with the development confirmed the incident, noting that security agencies had been deployed to the area. He said operatives were already on the trail of the attackers and expressed confidence that the victims would be rescued.

    “Yes, some worshippers were kidnapped… security agencies are involved and on the trail of the attackers,” the source said.

    Police Confirm Attack, Begin Manhunt

    The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the attack on Wednesday and announced the commencement of a coordinated rescue operation. The Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a full investigation.

    According to him, the police, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, vigilantes and local hunters, have begun aggressive bush combing operations to locate the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.

    Authorities Urge Calm, Heighten Security Advisory

    The police urged residents to remain calm while assuring that all necessary steps were being taken to address the situation. Abutu also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    He advised religious leaders to notify the police before organising late-night programmes to enable proper security arrangements.

    Recurring Pattern Raises Fresh Concerns

    The attack adds to a growing pattern of assaults on religious gatherings in parts of the country. A similar incident occurred in November 2025 in Kwara State, where gunmen attacked a church, killed worshippers and abducted dozens.

    The latest development is expected to heighten concerns around security in rural communities, particularly during large gatherings, as authorities intensify efforts to rescue the victims and restore calm.

  • Apostle Suleman Slams Leaders Over Re-election Push, Says “Performance, Not Promises” Should Decide Votes

    Senior pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Johnson Suleman, has criticised Nigeria’s political leadership, questioning the push for re-election amid ongoing hardship across the country.

    He said performance, not promises, should determine who Nigerians support.

    Questions Re-election Ambitions

    Suleman argued that leaders who failed to deliver in their first term should not expect another mandate.

    “During your first four years in office, you did nothing, and now you want Nigerians to vote for you again? Don’t vote for them. Performance is the best form of campaign,” he said.

    He also accused some politicians of weakening opposition parties instead of focusing on governance.

    Highlights Hardship, Insecurity

    The cleric pointed to rising economic challenges and insecurity, saying many Nigerians are struggling to meet basic needs.

    “We are not asking for too much… all we need are basic amenities, affordable food items, security, and steady electricity,” he stated.

    Raises Concern Over Mass Migration

    Suleman further highlighted the growing number of Nigerians leaving the country, linking it to safety concerns.

    “Thousands of people are leaving… not because they want too much wealth, but because they want safety,” he said.

    He added that even professionals now take lower-paying jobs abroad in search of stability.

    Calls for Accountability

    The pastor maintained that governance should be judged by visible results, insisting that Nigerians deserve better living conditions.

    His comments have since sparked conversations as concerns over the economy and security continue to dominate discussions in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • NAF Strikes Terrorist Stronghold in Southern Tumbuns, Eliminates Insurgents

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Hadin Kai, has destroyed terrorist enclaves in the Southern Tumbuns, eliminating several insurgents during a precision airstrike carried out on April 24, 2026, over Ali Sheriffti.

    The location is described as a known terrorist stronghold, with the operation conducted in the evening hours based on credible intelligence.

    Intelligence-Led Operation

    According to a statement by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, surveillance missions tracked insurgents moving through concealed routes before they were traced to hidden structures under dense foliage.

    The Air Force then carried out a precision strike after confirming the targets.

    “The operation achieved its objective, destroying the terrorist hideouts and further degrading their operational capability,” the statement said.

    Military Reaffirms Commitment

    The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the force would continue sustained operations to dismantle terrorist networks.

    He stressed that no safe haven would be allowed for extremist groups, adding that operations would intensify to protect citizens.

    Training Boosts Operational Capacity

    In a related development, the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) graduated officers from specialised training programmes focused on air campaign planning and intelligence operations.

    At the ceremony, Air Vice Marshal PN Amadi urged participants to apply their knowledge in strengthening field operations, describing them as key assets in ongoing missions.

    The Commandant of AWDC, Air Vice Marshal Garba Jibia, said the training was designed to improve coordination, intelligence integration, and mission effectiveness in modern warfare.

    Push for Operational Excellence

    The NAF said the training aligns with efforts to strengthen operational capacity and adapt to evolving security threats through improved planning and intelligence-driven strategies.

    The latest strike underscores ongoing military operations targeting insurgent hideouts across conflict-prone regions.

     

  • Oyedepo Recounts Confronting Kidnappers, Tells Members to Give Them His Number

    A viral video has captured Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), recounting an encounter with kidnappers during a church service.

    Oyedepo narrates dramatic incident

    In the footage, the cleric told his congregation how one of his pastors was kidnapped and how he intervened after speaking directly with the abductors.

    “Give them the phone… I commanded them to release him within 24 hours,” Oyedepo said.

    He added that the situation became tense after his warning, claiming the kidnappers became unsettled.

    Claims of unusual reaction

    Oyedepo further stated that the abductors reportedly began acting erratically following the threat, while the victim was later instructed to leave the location and return home.

    He also referenced a similar incident involving one of his daughters.

    Message to church members

    Addressing his congregation, the cleric advised members that if they are ever abducted, they should give the kidnappers his phone number.

    The statement has since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians debating the remarks and their implications.

  • 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.

     

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • “I Am Alive” — Abducted UNIJOS Graduate Speaks in New Video as Kidnappers Demand ₦4m Balance

    John Arum, the abducted University of Jos graduate, has appeared in a new video confirming he is alive, dismissing earlier rumours that he had died in captivity.

    The footage, released on April 20, 2026, shows the victim speaking while his captors also addressed the situation and ongoing ransom negotiations.

    Proof of life emerges

    In the video, Arum directly counters the reports circulating online.

    “Today is April 20, 2026 and I am alive,” he said.

    He added that kidnappers initially demanded ₦10 million for his release, noting that ₦6 million has already been paid, leaving a balance of ₦4 million.

    Kidnappers issue fresh warning

    The abductors, who also spoke in the clip, warned that any delay in completing the payment could put his life at risk.

    They insisted that the remaining ransom must be paid promptly.

    Earlier fears and viral footage

    The development follows earlier viral footage that sparked widespread concern about Arum’s condition.

    Reports claiming he had died in captivity had circulated online before the latest video surfaced.

    What this means

    The latest video confirms the victim is still alive, while raising fresh urgency around the ransom demand and his possible release.

  • NAF “Kills” Terrorists in Sambisa as Fresh Airstrike Destroys Hideouts

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has eliminated several terrorists in a precision airstrike carried out on April 19, 2026, in the Yuwe axis of Sambisa Forest, Borno State, as part of ongoing operations against insurgents in the North-East.

    What happened

    According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the strike was executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI after credible intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists in fortified structures and bunkers.

    He said the targets were engaged with precision munitions, leading to the destruction of the structures and the neutralisation of multiple fighters.

    Details of the operation

    Ejodame explained that the mission was supported by Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations, which verified terrorist activity in the area before the strike.

    “NAF air assets engaged the targets with precision munitions, destroying the structures, neutralising multiple terrorists, and eliminating key logistics facilities,” he said.

    He added that a post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the impact of the operation.

    Military speaks on ongoing operations

    The NAF noted that sustained air offensives have continued to weaken terrorist networks in the region, forcing them into more desperate actions.

    “The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly exposed and disrupted,” Ejodame stated.

    Also speaking, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to intensifying operations.

    “The Nigerian Air Force will sustain relentless, intelligence-driven air operations until terrorist elements are completely neutralised,” he said.

    Background

    Sambisa Forest has remained a major stronghold for insurgent groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East for years.

    Military operations under Operation HADIN KAI have focused on dismantling these networks through coordinated ground and air offensives.

  • Angry Plateau Residents Attack Soldiers, Burn Military Checkpoint After Burial of Slain Villager

    Tension escalated in Plateau State as angry residents of Kassa community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area attacked soldiers and set a military checkpoint ablaze following the burial of a resident reportedly killed by gunmen.

    Mob storms checkpoint after burial

    The incident occurred late Sunday night at Rapung Kassa, where a crowd of youths and women stormed a military checkpoint, destroying structures and equipment used by troops stationed in the area.

    The protest was triggered by the burial of Gyang Nuhu Choji, who was reportedly killed on April 16 by suspected armed attackers.

    Residents accused security operatives of failing to prevent repeated attacks, insisting that the presence of troops had not translated into adequate protection.

    Roads blocked, movement disrupted

    During the protest, the mob blocked access roads, disrupting movement in and out of the community.

    The situation was later brought under control after intervention by local leaders and security officials, who assured residents of renewed efforts to address insecurity.

    Security sources confirmed that no casualties were recorded during the attack, while patrol and surveillance operations have since been intensified.

    Rising violence in Barkin Ladi axis

    The latest unrest comes amid a pattern of violent incidents across Barkin Ladi and neighbouring areas involving armed groups, bandits, and local militias.

    Recent operations by security forces included raids on suspected camps, recovery of rustled cattle, and arrests of individuals linked to violent attacks.

    Troops also intercepted suspected militia members and recovered weapons, motorcycles, and ammunition in separate operations within the area.

    Clashes, arrests and reprisals

    Security reports indicate ongoing clashes between troops and armed groups, including a recent gun battle in which several attackers were killed.

    Authorities also confirmed arrests of suspected militia members linked to targeted killings, alongside incidents of cattle rustling and alleged poisoning of livestock in nearby communities.

    The developments highlight growing tensions in the region, with repeated attacks and reprisals raising fresh concerns over security in Plateau communities.