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  • Gospel Singer Adeyinka Alaseyori Calls for Nationwide Prayer Over Rising Insecurity

    Gospel singer Adeyinka Alaseyori has called on Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country following recent cases of child kidnappings, as public concern over insecurity continues to grow across Nigeria.

    The gospel artiste made the appeal in a message shared online on Sunday, urging citizens to respond to the situation with spiritual unity rather than division or blame.

    Call for National Prayer

    Alaseyori said the rising tension and criticism surrounding the handling of abductions should not lead to political disagreements, but rather encourage collective prayer for affected families and security agencies.

    According to her, national healing requires spiritual intervention alongside institutional efforts.

    “So many people are saying the prayer they are praying is not working, but believe me, prayers are working. Don’t let anybody use you for political whatever. From the president to the last person in Nigeria, we need to pray,” she said.

    Appeal for Empathy and Support

    The singer also urged Nigerians to show empathy for security personnel involved in rescue operations, noting the risks they face in efforts to secure abducted victims.

    She stressed that prayer should be seen as a complement to government and security responses rather than a replacement.

    “Those children are your children. They are my children. You can’t say the president and security personnel are not working. Sometimes they are close, and something just covers their eyes—that’s where prayer comes in,” she added.

    Public Reactions and Ongoing Debate

    Her comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians praising her call for unity and faith, while others maintained that stronger accountability and structural reforms are needed to address insecurity.

    The debate reflects ongoing national conversations following repeated abductions across parts of the country, including recent incidents that have heightened public anxiety.

    As discussions continue, the balance between faith-based appeals and calls for government accountability remains a recurring theme in responses to insecurity in Nigeria.

  • Fayose Alleges Oyo Kidnap May Be Plot to Embarrass Tinubu

    Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has alleged that the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu, a claim that has added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the attack.

    Fayose made the allegation on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, where he questioned the timing of events surrounding the kidnapping and the political activities of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

    Fayose Questions Timing of Incident

    According to Fayose, the circumstances surrounding the abduction raised suspicions about possible political motives aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration.

    He argued that Governor Makinde appeared more focused on political activities linked to his party’s nomination process before publicly engaging with the families of the victims.

    “And I want to say to you in Oyo State, I have a strong belief, I may be wrong, that this sometimes can be orchestrated,” Fayose said.

    “The Governor of Oyo State had his nomination, the nomination of his candidate in the face of this abduction. He did not take any action, no steps were taken. It was after all those nominations that he went to the family to visit them.”

    Comparison With Jonathan Era

    Fayose also claimed that the incident was being used in a manner similar to how insecurity became a major issue during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had inherited significant challenges from previous administrations and was making efforts to address them.

    “I can sometimes believe that this was orchestrated in a way, I’m not saying totally, by the government of Oyo State to blackmail President Tinubu,” he added.

    Background to the Abduction

    Armed men riding motorcycles attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School in Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15.

    Police confirmed that an assistant headmaster, Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack. An okada rider was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

    Governor Seyi Makinde later disclosed that 25 students and seven teachers were abducted, while one teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the attackers. Videos circulated online later showed that the teacher was beheaded.

    Makinde’s Response

    Makinde has repeatedly condemned the attack and said the state government was prepared to explore all lawful options to secure the release of the victims.

    Addressing journalists in Ibadan, the governor said the government was willing to listen to the abductors’ demands if it would help secure the safe return of those in captivity.

    He also announced the establishment of an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters to coordinate rescue efforts and provide verified information to the public.

    Meanwhile, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Take-It-Back Movement Protests Kidnapping of Oyo Schoolchildren in Ibadan

    Members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday staged a protest at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the kidnapping of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The protesters, who gathered at the busy junction in the state capital, called on government authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the safe rescue of the abducted victims.

    They also demanded urgent action to address the rising wave of kidnappings across Oyo State and improve security in vulnerable communities.

    The demonstration disrupted normal activity around the area as participants carried placards and chanted solidarity messages.

    Further details are expected as the situation develops.

    Watch the video below:

  • Tinubu Approves Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards in Oyo Over Rising Insecurity, Abduction Crisis

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of urgent measures aimed at strengthening security following recent abductions in parts of the state.

    The decision comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in the state, particularly the kidnapping of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The development was disclosed on Sunday, May 31, during a visit by a high-level federal government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire.

    The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

    Security Reinforcement Measures

    During the visit, the delegation informed community leaders that the request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.

    Gbajabiamila also disclosed that the President had directed a specialised security unit with advanced capabilities to intensify rescue operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the recruitment of forest guards forms part of a broader strategy to improve surveillance and respond to security threats in forested and vulnerable areas.

    Presidential Commitment to Rescue Efforts

    Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the abduction and has ordered full support for security agencies involved in the rescue mission.

    “Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.

    He added that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to ensure the safe return of the victims.

    Community Reassurance

    The delegation assured affected communities that the Federal Government is committed to addressing insecurity in the region and preventing future attacks on schools.

    The move comes as authorities continue efforts to locate and rescue abducted students and teachers, while security agencies intensify operations across vulnerable areas in Oyo State.

  • Oyo Teachers Begin Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Ogbomoso Pupils, Teachers

    The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to begin an indefinite strike following the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The strike, which takes effect from Monday, June 1, 2026, is expected to shut down public schools across the state until all the victims regain their freedom.

    NUT Takes Drastic Action

    In a statement jointly signed by NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, and Secretary General, Dr. Clinton J. Ikpitibo, the union said the decision became necessary due to the prolonged captivity of the victims.

    The union expressed concern that despite several appeals to government authorities and security agencies, there has been no significant breakthrough in securing the release of the abducted teachers and students.

    According to the NUT, schools, teachers and pupils should never become easy targets for criminal elements.

    Nationwide Solidarity Protests Planned

    Beyond the strike action in Oyo State, the union also directed all its state chapters across Nigeria to organise solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2.

    The protests are expected to take place in different states, with participants marching to Government Houses to demand urgent intervention and the safe return of the victims.

    The union said the demonstrations are intended to draw national attention to the worsening security situation affecting schools and educational institutions.

    Fear Grows Over Victims’ Welfare

    The NUT disclosed that anxiety has continued to grow following reports suggesting that some of the abducted victims may have died in captivity.

    The union also referenced videos reportedly released by the kidnappers, showing an abducted school principal and teacher appealing to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, the NUT and Nigerians for urgent intervention.

    The emotional footage has sparked widespread concern among teachers, parents and education stakeholders.

    Education Cannot Thrive Under Fear

    The union maintained that the trauma suffered by the victims, their families and the wider education community made the strike unavoidable.

    It called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the unconditional release of all those still being held captive.

    The NUT stressed that meaningful education cannot take place in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, vowing to sustain lawful pressure until the abducted teachers and pupils are freed.

  • Peter Okoye Declares War on Silence, Vows to Speak Out on Insecurity and Bad Governance

    Veteran Nigerian singer Peter Okoye has vowed to become more vocal about insecurity and governance issues in Nigeria, saying he is no longer afraid of criticism or attacks from social media users.

    The music star made the declaration in a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, amid growing public concern over security challenges across the country.

    Peter Okoye Speaks Out

    In his post, Peter said he was preparing to openly address issues of insecurity and what he described as poor governance in Nigeria.

    According to him, individuals who attack public figures online for expressing opinions should be ready for his future comments on national matters.

    “The way I’m about to start speaking out on insecurity and bad governance in Nigeria, all these N3k sponsored attackers better get ready,” he wrote.

    ‘I’m No Longer Afraid’

    The singer also suggested that attempts to silence him would not succeed, stressing that he had reached a point where he was willing to express himself without fear.

    “If una wan cancel me, make una line up well. Cos me too I don fall out,” he added.

    His comments have drawn attention across social media, with many users debating the role of celebrities in national conversations.

    Mixed Reactions Online

    Peter Okoye’s remarks come at a time when concerns over insecurity remain a major topic of discussion in Nigeria, especially following recent reports of abductions and violent attacks in parts of the country.

    While some Nigerians praised him for speaking up, others argued that public figures often face intense backlash whenever they take positions on political or governance issues.

    The singer has yet to make further comments, but his statement has already generated widespread reactions online as discussions about insecurity and leadership continue across the country.