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  • Sunday Igboho Alleges Politicians Back Oyo Kidnappers, Threatens to Expose Sponsors

    Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has alleged that some politicians are backing the kidnappers responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and threatened to expose those involved if the attacks continue.

    He made the claim during a meeting with newly elected executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by Akinteye Babatunde, at his residence in Soka, Ibadan, on Wednesday.

    Igboho claims knowledge of sponsors

    Igboho said he has information about individuals allegedly sponsoring criminal groups operating in parts of the state, insisting that the kidnappers would be defeated if security operatives and local vigilante groups were allowed to operate freely in forest areas.

    “I know the politicians behind them, and if they do not stop perpetrating their evil acts, I will mention them all. The politicians behind them are the ones giving them ammunition and money,” he said.

    Allegations against political actors

    The activist further alleged that some political actors were deliberately creating instability to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “The same thing they did to Jonathan is what they are doing to Tinubu. They want to make the country ungovernable for him. They use propaganda and fake news to discourage supporters of the President,” he stated.

    Claims over rescue efforts

    Igboho also denied reports that he demanded payment from the Oyo State Government before participating in rescue operations, saying he had offered to help flush out kidnappers but was restricted by authorities.

    He claimed that officials informed him kidnappers had threatened to kill abducted victims if he attempted direct intervention.

    “Later, they told me the kidnappers warned that if I forced my way into the operation, they would kill all the children. If they truly want these victims rescued, they should allow my men and me to drive the criminals out of the forests,” he said.

    Background to Oyo abductions

    The controversy follows the abduction of at least 45 pupils during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

    The affected schools include Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School.

    The incident has heightened security concerns in the state, with agencies reportedly intensifying operations around forest corridors linking Oriire communities and the Old Oyo National Park area.

    Reports also indicated that attackers communicated in Yoruba, Hausa and Pidgin English during the assault, while tensions escalated further after one of the abducted teachers was reportedly killed.

    Igboho has continued to advocate for the deployment of his proposed security outfit, the “Iru Ekun Security Network,” insisting it could help tackle criminal groups operating within forests across the South-West.

  • Oyo Assembly Rejects Negotiation With Kidnappers, Pushes for Stronger Rescue Efforts

    The Oyo State House of Assembly has ruled out negotiations with the kidnappers who abducted teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that security agencies should focus on rescue operations and intelligence-driven actions to secure the victims’ release.

    The position was made known during deliberations on the worsening security situation in the state and the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers.

    Assembly Opposes Ransom Talks

    Speaking on the matter, the Speaker of the House, Adebo Ogundoyin, said engaging kidnappers in negotiations could embolden criminal groups and encourage more attacks.

    According to him, government efforts should be directed towards rescuing the victims and strengthening security structures rather than opening discussions with their captors.

    “Negotiating with kidnappers could encourage further attacks. Efforts should remain focused on rescue operations, intelligence gathering, and strengthening security across the state,” he said.

    Call for Permanent Military Presence

    The lawmakers also advocated the establishment of a permanent military base in the affected area to improve response times and enhance security operations.

    They argued that a stronger security presence would help deter criminal activities and provide better protection for residents and educational institutions.

    Security Measures Recommended

    The Assembly further called for comprehensive security audits of schools considered vulnerable to attacks.

    Lawmakers also urged the government to provide additional support for local security outfits and accelerate discussions around state policing as part of broader efforts to address insecurity.

    The recommendations come amid growing concerns over the safety of students, teachers and residents following the abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Pressure Mounts Over Victims’ Rescue

    The kidnapping has continued to generate concern across Oyo State, with calls mounting for authorities to secure the release of the victims and prevent similar incidents in the future.

    The Assembly maintained that strengthening security infrastructure and improving intelligence gathering remain critical to addressing the challenge.

  • Adeyinka Alaseyori Apologises After Backlash Over Oyo Kidnapping Prayer Video

    Nigerian gospel singer Adeyinka Alaseyori has issued a public apology following widespread backlash over her prayer video on the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.

    The apology comes days after a lengthy video she posted online sparked controversy, with many Nigerians accusing her of making remarks that appeared insensitive or politically suggestive amid the ongoing insecurity crisis.

    Singer Addresses Public Reaction

    In a follow-up video shared on X, Alaseyori appealed for understanding and forgiveness, insisting that the original intent of her message was intercessory prayer for the victims and their families.

    “Please Nigerians forgive me if I have ever made you feel offended. I did a video two days ago… praying for the kidnapped Oyo State school children and teachers,” she said.

    She added that the reaction took her by surprise, noting that she later discovered the video circulating online had been edited and merged in a way that changed its original context.

    Controversy Over Edited Clips

    The original video, reportedly about 90 minutes long, featured the singer leading prayers for the safe return of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

    However, short clips shared on social media triggered criticism, with some users alleging that parts of her message downplayed security concerns or showed support for political leadership during the crisis.

    The backlash intensified as social media users and commentators debated the role of religious leaders in national issues, particularly insecurity and kidnappings affecting schoolchildren.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    Public response to her apology has remained divided.

    While some Nigerians accepted her explanation and called for forgiveness, others argued that the controversy reflects deeper frustrations over insecurity and governance in the country.

    The incident has further fuelled ongoing debates around the intersection of religion, politics, and public accountability in Nigeria’s response to rising abductions.

    As of the time of this report, the apology video had continued to generate significant engagement across social media platforms.

  • Peter Obi Appeals for Release of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Cites Governance Failures

    Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren kidnapped in Oyo State to release them immediately, describing their ordeal as a painful reflection of the country’s deepening insecurity.

    In a statement on Wednesday, Obi said he was devastated after seeing images of the abducted children, whose bodies reportedly showed signs of severe flogging and abuse while in captivity.

    Obi Expresses Shock Over Children’s Condition

    The former Anambra State governor said the condition of the children highlights the alarming security situation in Nigeria and the dangers facing young people across the country.

    “I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.

    Obi added that the incident reinforced concerns he has repeatedly raised about the long-term consequences of societal neglect and poor governance.

    Links Insecurity to Leadership Challenges

    According to Obi, many of Nigeria’s present challenges are the result of years of poor leadership and policy failures.

    “I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born,” he stated.

    He argued that the suffering of the abducted pupils demonstrates how governance failures eventually affect future generations.

    The former presidential candidate also reiterated his concerns about public borrowing, warning that decisions taken today could impose heavy burdens on younger Nigerians in years to come.

    “This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone,” he said.

    Direct Appeal to Kidnappers

    Obi urged those holding the children captive to consider the innocence of their victims and the pain being experienced by their families.

    “Remember that these are innocent children, sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity,” he said.

    He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify inflicting suffering on innocent children.

    “No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence,” Obi added.

    Calls for Immediate Release

    Obi concluded his message with an emotional appeal for the children’s safe return.

    “I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families.”

  • APC Demands Rescue of Adelabu’s Sister, Faults Makinde Over Rising Insecurity in Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the abduction of Mrs. Busayo Adelabu John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and her twin sons in Ibadan.

    The party called on Governor Seyi Makinde to work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to address the growing security challenges across the state.

    APC Raises Concern Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC described the incident as alarming, especially as several kidnapping cases in the state remain unresolved.

    The party noted that the abduction occurred amid ongoing concerns over the fate of schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area, as well as two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Oluyole Local Government Area.

    According to reports, Mrs. John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons were abducted by gunmen at Elewura-Challenge in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

    Call for Immediate Rescue

    APC urged authorities at all levels of government to review and strengthen the state’s security architecture to better protect residents.

    “We demand immediate rescue of all Oriire school abductees, two CRIN staff, Mrs. Busayo John-Paul and her children, as well as others who are in captivity at the moment,” the statement said.

    The party also called for coordinated efforts between government and security agencies to curb the increasing cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in Oyo State.

    Criticism of State Government

    Sadare argued that residents were living in fear due to the worsening security situation and urged Governor Makinde to seek additional support where necessary.

    “No citizen deserves to live in perpetual fear and anxiety as is the situation with the residents of Oyo at the moment,” he said.

    He added that insecurity had reached an unprecedented level in the state and warned that urgent intervention was needed to prevent further deterioration.

    Police Investigation Ongoing

    The Oyo State Police Command had earlier confirmed that investigations were underway into the abduction of Mrs. John-Paul and her children.

    Police spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade said security operatives had launched efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.

  • Gunmen Attack Immigration Office in Ogbomoso, Cart Away Officers’ Firearms

    Gunmen have attacked the Immigration Office in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and carted away firearms belonging to officers on duty during a late-night operation on June 2, 2026.

    The incident occurred at about 10 p.m. at the facility located along the Ogbomoso–Ilorin new expressway, sparking fresh concerns over security in the area.

    Attack on Immigration Facility

    Sources said the attackers stormed the premises while activities were ongoing around the nearby Ayanyan Cattle Market, taking officers by surprise.

    The gunmen reportedly overpowered personnel on duty and dispossessed them of their weapons before escaping into the night.

    No casualties were immediately confirmed at the time of filing this report.

    Police React

    The Oyo State Police Command said it was yet to receive a full briefing on the incident.

    Spokesperson of the command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said updates would be provided once verified information is obtained from the affected unit.

    “I will provide updates as soon as the necessary information becomes available,” he said.

    Authorities are expected to commence investigation into the attack as security operatives move to track those responsible.

  • Gunmen Abduct Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons in Ibadan

    Unknown gunmen have abducted Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, the younger sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, along with her 12-year-old twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The abduction occurred on Wednesday morning while she was reportedly taking the children to school.

    Abduction Along School Route

    According to a statement issued by Adelabu’s media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, the incident happened at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026.

    Mrs. John-Paul, 43, was travelling with her twin sons, Peter and Paul, when the gunmen intercepted them and whisked them away.

    The family confirmed the incident and described it as a distressing development.

    Family Speaks on Victim

    The statement noted that Mrs. John-Paul is the youngest of five children of Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu.

    She reportedly retired voluntarily last year from her roles at the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian before relocating to Ibadan with her children.

    According to the family, she was making arrangements to join her husband, Mr. John Paul, in the United States before the incident occurred.

    Security Agencies Launch Investigation

    The family said security and law enforcement agencies were immediately notified after the abduction.

    “We are pleased to confirm that security operatives have swung into action and preliminary investigations have commenced in earnest,” the statement said.

    Authorities are currently working to secure the release of the victims and track down those responsible for the abduction.

    Appeal for Calm

    Chief Adelabu and members of the family expressed confidence in the efforts of security agencies and appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could affect ongoing rescue operations.

    They also called on Nigerians to support the family through prayers and urged anyone with useful information to contact the nearest police station or relevant security agencies.

     

  • Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Lagos Engagements, Oyo Attack Victims Yet to Receive Presidential Visit

    President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after spending the Eid-el-Kabir holiday in Lagos, where he participated in a series of political, governmental and national engagements, amid growing calls for him to visit families affected by the recent terrorist attack in Oyo State.

    The President arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday at about 5:17 p.m. and was received by senior government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu.

    Calls Over Oyo Attack

    Tinubu’s return comes as some Nigerians continue to urge him to personally visit the families of victims of the terrorist attack in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Rather than visiting the affected community, the President had earlier dispatched a high-powered Federal Government delegation led by Ribadu.

    Other members of the delegation included Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe, and Special Adviser on Public Communications Sunday Dare.

    Political Meetings During Holiday

    During his stay in Lagos, Tinubu received Vice President Kashim Shettima and several groups who paid him the traditional Sallah homage.

    Among those who visited were Senate President Godswill Akpabio and members of the Senate leadership.

    The President also hosted members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as well as APC stakeholders from Oyo State, including the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli.

    APC candidates for the House of Representatives and State House of Assembly from Lagos State also met with the President during the holiday period.

    Navy Anniversary, Benin Meeting

    On Monday, Tinubu attended the International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic City Waterfront as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy.

    The President commissioned three naval vessels, NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara, during the event.

    He also held talks with the President of Benin Republic, Romuald Wadagni, in a meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations, regional cooperation and economic partnership between both countries.

  • 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.

  • 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: