Police Says Report On Arrest Of Fulani With Ammunition In Lagos, Misleading, Fake

May 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media showing the arrest of some Fulani men allegedly found with arms and ammunition in Ikorodu.

It pointed out that the footage is an old clip from an incident which occurred more than three years ago.

The viral video has claimed that Fulani herdsmen were arrested in Ikorodu, Lagos, with two vehicles loaded with bullets, Guns, and explosive devices.

According to the report, OPC Dependable Security Team uncovered this at a scrap yard in Powerline, Unity Estate CDA, Poroboge, Idiroko, along Itamaga-Iede road, Ikorodu.

Local sources claimed that operatives of the OPC Dependable Security Team carried out a security operation in the area, following intelligence reports about suspicious activities around the scrap yard.

During the operation, the team allegedly intercepted two vehicles said to contain dangerous weapons, including firearms, live ammunition, and suspected explosive materials.

However, the command explained that the video does not reflect the current security situation in Ikorodu or any part of Lagos State and warned that its recirculation as a recent event could cause unnecessary panic among residents.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said presenting the outdated footage as a fresh incident was misleading and capable of creating fear and apprehension among members of the public.

“We Don’t Have AK-47 To Face Criminals” – Ekiti Monarchs

Ayodele Oni

May 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, called for review of the kidnapping law to stipulate strict punitive actions for those fanning the ember of crimes in the land.

Oba Adu-Alagbado, also called on President Tinubu to fastrack actions on the creation of the State Police, so that each state can have a stronger security architecture that can deal decisively with criminal elements terrorising the country.

The monarch made the requests on Saturday, during engagement of Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, with Ekiti State Traditional Rulers in Ado- Ekiti as part of activities lined up for her one-day working visit to the state.

“Your Excellency, you are welcome to Ekiti State. We had in the past the wife of a president who championed a better life programme, but for Senator Oluremi Tinubu, you have taken your better life programme under Renewed Hope Initiative to the Northeast, Northwest, Southwest and every part of the country.

“You have touched the lives of our people. We heard about you when you were in the Senate. We heard about how you transformed the lives of Lagos Central that you represented.

“We thank the President through you for the affection he has shown for our governor.

“Our Governor had always been praising him for his fatherly role. Our message to the President is that we are with him totally. He is a special man that was ordained by God.

“We know about the obstacles. We know how he had been tackling them. He is our son and we are proud of him, not just a son, but one that is doing wonders and making us proud.

“No country is devoid of criminals. But there should be review of laws in the country dealing with issue of insecurity.

“Kidnapping has been on for some time. All those that are aiding and abetting kidnapping, we have not seen any punitive measures being taken against them.

“There should be a review of the laws dealing with these murderers.

“The bill for the creation of the state police should be fasttracked. Our people are not cowards, but our hands are tied, because our people can’t carry AK 47 to face these criminals.”

In her remarks, Oluremi Tinubu, assured Nigerians of President Bola Tinubu’s unshakeable commitment to security of lives and properties of citizens through stronger internal security plan and building of security alliances with developed nations.

The First Lady said President Tinubu has entered into partnership with developed countries, like the United States of America and others, and taking internal security measures to smash those terrorising the country and stoking the fire of killings and kidnappings across the geopolitical zones.

Interfacing with the monarchs, the First Lady, who described the horrendous cases of kidnappings, banditry and killings as highly disheartening, revealed that the President is incurably committed to making the country safe for all citizens.

Senator Tinubu thanked the traditional rulers for their support for President Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji, saying this has been a veritable impetus driving the two leaders to give their best in terms of commitment to good governance.

“It is disheartening that we have this insecurity. A lot of foreign countries are helping our nation. The US and some other developed countries are helping us in this matter.

“Some of those terrorising us are non- Nigerians. No matter what happens, we shall overcome, Nigeria is too great to be intimidated.

“Let us bear in minds that we have a great country. Challenges will come, but collectively, we can tackle them.

“I can assure you, we don’t have Mondays or Sundays, the President is working round the clock to get this matter resolved.

“At times, Mr President will sleep at 3:00am and God has been faithful. Let us be prayerful about our nation. It is prayers that have taken us this far.

“We want to thank Ekiti people for the tremendous support they are giving the president. Kabiyesi, I thank you immensely for your love and care for Mr President and Governor Oyebanji”.

2026 Unity: Super Eagles Trounce Jamaica To Retain Unity Cup

Akinwale Kasali

May 31, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

The Super Eagles of Nigeria has cemented its dominance in the Afro-Caribbean Football Tournament (The Unity Cup) as a formidable force. The team retained its crown with a sure-footed display that flummoxed Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz at The Valley on Saturday Night.

United States of America based midfielder, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, proved his mettle as a diminutive defensive midfielder, netting a brace to cap a brilliant mini-tournament for himself.

Stand-in captain, Terem Moffi, scored in-between to ensure despair for the Reggae Boyz teeming crowd in south-east London.

Abdullahi was quickest to the ball as Jamaica’s goalkeeper, Coniah Boyce-Clarke, punched the ball following a long throw-in from the left by Kenneth Igboke in the 4th minute, which was pounced by Alhassan to give the Coach Eric Chelle-young Super Eagles Team the lead.

The early advantage, just as happened against Zimbabwe in the semi final four days earlier, spurred them to a commanding display that left the Reggae Boyz chasing shadows for large swathes of the encounter.

Coach Chelle made only one change to the team that upended Zimbabwe’s Warriors, bringing in Rafiu Durosinmi to start in place of Philip Otele, but the three-time African champions kept their telepathy and ran the park with flair and discipline.

In the 8th minute, Nigeria goalkeeper, Arthur Okonkwo was called to action for the first time, but he saved easily as Brown headed the ball after a cross by Kaheim Dixon.

In the 35th minute, Nigeria came close to increasing the tally, but Durosinmi’s shot was well-read by Clarke as the Eagles broke on the counter.

In the second half, Durosinmi’s header from a free-kick by Femi Azeez flew over the sticks, but a minute later, the Eagles were celebrating as Moffi headed a pin-point cross by Azeez beyond the flailing arms of Clarke.

Clarke saved smartly from a free-kick by Azeez on the edge of the box, but Nigeria refused to slow down and after he snatched the ball midway into Jamaica’s half of the field with one minute into added time, substitute Philip Otele found Abdullahi, whose angled shot proved too much for Clarke and sealed a handsome win for the Super Eagles.

With this victory, Nigeria has won the Unity Cup for the Fourth Time and Two in a row under Coach Chelle.

Next up for the Eagles is a friendly against Poland’s senior men national team at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw, on Wednesday. 3rd June.

Advocate Congratulates Obi, Says He Will ‘Illuminate’ The Nation

James Orji

May 31, 2026

An advocate for environmental sustainability, youth development and Pan-Africanism, Arc. Stevens Benkos-Nwokolo, has congratulated the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, on his emergence as the party’s flag bearer for the 2027 presidential election. He described Obi as “a light that will illuminate the nation.”

Benkos-Nwokolo said Obi represents more than a party candidate; he embodies a movement for a better, progressive, and united Nigeria, anchored on credible, inclusive servant leadership that prioritizes the collective interest and prosperity of the country. He added that citizens committed to purposeful leadership should join the movement, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religious background.

Benkos-Nwokolo, urged Nigerians to be more deliberate in participating in the 2027 general elections to ensure the outcomes improve their present living conditions and secure a better future for generations to come.

According to him, “The nation’s worsening insecurity — marked by rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism — should concern every citizen. We cannot make progress as a nation while these grave conditions persist. We must therefore take collective action to rescue the country from the grip of these bloodthirsty criminals who have made our communities unsafe.”

Arc. Benkos-Nwokolo stated that citizens should translate the critical opinions and grievances about the harsh socio-economic conditions often expressed on social media into action on the political turf by exercising their voting power at all levels of representation.

The good governance advocate made this call in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, May 31, 2026. He emphasized that citizens can only exercise this right effectively if they possess their voter cards and remain politically aware of their environment, the needs of their communities, and the capacity and responsibilities of those they elect to represent them in government.

The sustainable development advocate further stated, “It is no longer in doubt that the impact of a challenging economic environment, scarce opportunities, dysfunctional social infrastructure, and weak institutions has continued to erode the faith of Nigerian youths in democracy, driving many to turn their backs on the nation in droves.

“However, criticizing the political elite alone, without intentionally participating in the process of selecting our leaders, also makes us complicit. If we sit on the fence and fail to vote for those we believe will serve the nation better, we become part of the problem,” he emphasized.

He therefore urged all eligible voters who have not yet registered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to do so, noting that the registration window remains open. This, he said, will enable them to exercise their franchise in the upcoming elections.

“Given the overwhelming economic hardship driven by widespread poverty and hopelessness that have eroded citizens’ living standards and purchasing power, reducing many to destitution; coupled with expanding ungoverned and unsafe spaces, no Nigerian should remain indifferent in the coming elections. We must make deliberate, conscientious choices in the interest of our collective well-being and the nation’s progress,” he added.

South-West Fulani Leaders: We Are Not Kidnappers

James Orji

May 31, 2026

The Council of Fulani Chiefs in the South-West has denied any involvement in kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities, stressing that the Fulani community remains committed to peace and lawful conduct across the region.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the council’s chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Bambado II, distanced the body from individuals currently under investigation for alleged kidnapping in Ogun State.

According to him, the allegations concern specific suspects and should not be used to tarnish the image of the entire Fulani community or its traditional institutions.

Bambado spoke few hours after police said they had arrested some suspected Fulani kidnappers in Ogun State .

Some suspects are currently on the run, the state police command said on Saturday, assuring the people of the state that security agencies are currently tightening the grip on criminal elements who abduct people for ransome.

The Fulani leader however said his people do not support the criminal act, saying they are prepared to cooperate with the police to fish out the bad eggs among them.

He noted that the activity of some unscrupulous elements among them should not be use to generalise that the Fulani are criminals.

“The Council neither condones nor supports any form of criminality, including kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, or any activity that threatens the peace and security of our communities,” he said.

Bambado noted that criminal actions are personal and should be treated as such, adding that anyone found guilty should face justice through due legal process.

He also expressed support for security agencies in their efforts to investigate crimes and prosecute offenders, urging members of the public to provide useful information that could aid security operations.

The council further appealed to the media and the public to avoid ethnic profiling and generalizations capable of creating division and mistrust among communities.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence, the council said the Fulani community would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and development in the South-West and the country at large.

“Kwankwaso Will Be Genuine Partner, Not Mere Backup” – Peter Obi

Adesina Soyooye

May 31, 2026

By Adesina Soyooye

The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC Peter Obi, has said that his running mate, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso will not just be a spare tyre, but a genuine partner in the running of Nigeria.

In Nigeria, occupiers of such positions, whether at the Federal or State level are often anonymous. They operate at the pleasure of their bosses. In Nigeria, for instance, except in a few States, the names of the Deputy Governors are not even known. In fairness to the current administration, Vice President Kashim Shettima, has enjoyed a level of visibility even though there have questions as to why he has never officially been designated as Acting President, President Tinubu’s many trips outside the country notwithstanding.

However, Obi, who announced Kwankwaso as his running mate immediately after he was officially endorsed by the NDC as its presidential nominee for the upcoming 2027 general election at a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday, following a motion introduced by Senator Victor Umeh and supported by former Deputy Senate President, Omo Agege,

Immediately after his endorsement, stated that “Kwankwaso would be a genuine partner rather than a mere backup, in contrast to the approach of the current government.”

In his address to the convention after being nominated, Obi stared: “I humbly accept this responsibility as the presidential candidate for our party. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our party leaders, including His Excellency Seriake Dickson, the national chairman, the national secretary, and the members of the national working committee, as well as our dedicated supporters and the Nigerian people who continue to hold on to hope. I appreciate everyone who travelled from different parts of the country to be here in Abuja today.

“I want to clearly state: a new Nigeria is achievable. This belief unites us and should guide us as we navigate the challenging path ahead, helping us endure any trials we may encounter. This moment is larger than my personal aspirations; it concerns the core of our nation and the future of our children. It is about reigniting hope for millions who have endured hardships but remain devoted to Nigeria.

“Currently, our nation stands at a critical point, engulfed in uncertainty. Families are worried about their safety; parents fear for their children’s futures; and talented young individuals increasingly doubt opportunity in their own country.

“Businesses are facing difficulties, communities are in distress, and a growing number of citizens have lost confidence in governance. Nevertheless, I stand here today filled with hope and a strong belief in the resilience of our people, as I am convinced that a New Nigeria is within reach.

Obi outlined several priority issues his administration would tackle, including insecurity, national unity, the power sector, healthcare, education, and unemployment, among others.

“Our vast pool of talented youth remains significantly underemployed. The official unemployment statistic of 4% misrepresents the actual circumstances; the true rates of underemployment and unemployment in Nigeria exceed 30%, with youth unemployment surpassing 40%—among the highest globally. This situation demands urgent action. We will focus on promoting the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through targeted tax incentives, favourable interest rates, and accessible financing in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing, entertainment, sports, and distribution. These initiatives will be both measurable and accountable.

Regarding corruption and governance costs, he promised, “Nigerians will see a clear and verifiable decrease in corruption and in the fundamental expenses associated with governance. Public resources will be managed with full transparency, prudence, and accountability to ensure that every naira spent delivers measurable value to the citizens.”

He concluded by promising Nigerians that under his leadership, “democracy will reflect true governance by the people, for the people, and of the people, entirely free from interference by the ruling party. Instead, we will institute a culture of deep respect for opposition parties and encourage constructive cooperation in governance.”

Labour Party Presents Dr Chibuzo Okereke As Presidential Candidate For The 2027 Election

The Source

May 31, 2026

Dr. Chibuzo Okereke has officially been picked by the Labour Party as its Presidential candidate for the 2027 Presidential Election.

Okereke, according to a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Ken Eluma Asogwa, emerged following a broad-based consensus among party members and stakeholders which was affirmed in Abuja on 30th May, 2026.

Asogwa, in the statement stated that: “A distinguished governance expert, policy strategist and reform advocate, Dr. Okereke has built an impressive reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading voices on public policy, legislative governance and institutional development.

“Dr. Okereke is the President of ERGAF-AFRICA Legislative Governance Innovation and Policy Hub, a foremost policy and legislative research institution, and serves as Legislative Consultant to key committees and ranking members of the National Assembly. He is also a Resident Lecturer in the Department of Public Policy and Administration, Miva Open University, Abuja, where he contributes to the development of the next generation of public sector leaders and policy professionals.

“A highly accomplished scholar, Dr. Okereke holds a PhD in Legislative Governance Studies and Master’s degrees in Public Administration and Legislative Studies, both earned with distinction. His expertise in governance, public accountability and national development has made him a respected analyst and commentator on major national and international media platforms.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Okereke has remained committed to nation-building through youth empowerment, educational advancement and democratic reforms. His leadership, intellectual depth and proven commitment to good governance embody the vision of competent, accountable and transformational leadership that Nigeria urgently requires at this critical moment.”

Labour Party earned a commendable third position in the Presidential Election of 2023. Its candidate at the time was Mr Peter Obi, now the Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.

Fmr Kano Gov. Kwankwaso, Is Peter Obi’s Running Mate

Ayodele Oni

May 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Coming few hours after his nomination, Peter Obi has picked former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The announcement came shortly after Obi was officially confirmed as the party’s presidential candidate during the NDC’s nationwide primary elections held on Saturday.

Reports indicate that Obi emerged unopposed, having been the sole aspirant for the party’s presidential ticket.

The primary election was part of the NDC’s broader process of selecting candidates for various elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Following his affirmation, party leaders formally presented the NDC flag to Obi, symbolizing his emergence as the party’s standard bearer for the forthcoming presidential contest.

The event was attended by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in compliance with the requirements of the Electoral Act.

Obi’s choice of Kwankwaso as his running mate is expected to generate significant political interest as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

ADC Nat. Chairman, Mark, Assures Amicable Resolution Of Disputes Arising From Party’s Primary Election

Ayodele Oni

May 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

National Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has stated that Nigeria deserves leadership founded on integrity, competence, justice and service to the people.

Mark spoke in Abuja during the National Executive Committee meeting of the party.

According to him, “Nigeria today faces profound challenges. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across many parts of our country.

“Communities are displaced, farmers are unable to cultivate their lands freely, businesses struggle under difficult economic conditions, and millions of families face hardship and uncertainty.

“Equally troubling is the growing economic burden on ordinary Nigerians. Rising cost of living, unemployment, declining purchasing power and social discontent demand urgent and sincere attention from those entrusted with governance.

“As a responsible opposition party, the ADC does not celebrate the difficulties confronting our nation, nor do we seek political advantage from the pain of our people. Rather, we stand firmly in support of every sincere effort aimed at restoring peace, security, economic stability and national cohesion.

“We, therefore, urge governments at all levels to intensify efforts toward tackling insecurity decisively and implementing policies that make life more meaningful for Nigerians.

“However, our gathering today is not merely to review national challenges. It is also to strengthen our internal democratic processes and prepare our party for the responsibilities ahead.

“The National Executive Committee remains the highest policy-making organ of our party outside convention. Its decisions must therefore reflect wisdom, fairness, transparency and the collective interest of our party.

“We must continue to build an institution that inspires confidence among Nigerians — a party that respects internal democracy, rewards loyalty, encourages participation and upholds discipline.

“The ADC must remain a home for all Nigerians who seek credible leadership and genuine democratic alternatives.

“As we prepare for future electoral engagements, including the 2027 general elections, we must approach the task with unity and strategic focus. Our strength lies not in division but in unity .

“We must resist every tendency capable of weakening our collective resolve. Personal ambition must never supersede party interest.

“Internal disagreements, where they exist, should be resolved through dialogue, mutual respect and established party mechanisms.

“History teaches us that strong political parties are built not merely on personalities but on enduring values and institutions.

“I, therefore, call on all party leaders and members across the federation to close ranks and recommit themselves to the shared vision of building a stronger and more inclusive ADC.

“Let us continue to engage our people, expand our membership base, empower our grassroots structures and articulate practical solutions to the problems confronting Nigerians.

“Distinguished NEC members, Nigerians are watching us. Many citizens are increasingly searching for a credible political platform. The ADC must not fail them.

“I am aware of the numerous complaints, concerns and petitions arising from our party primaries across various states and constituencies.

“These issues are neither unusual in democratic contests nor beyond resolution within the framework of our party constitution and established procedures.

“I wish to assure all members that the National Working Committee will critically review the recommendations submitted by the various appeal committees and take informed, fair and responsible decisions in the overall interest of justice, equity and party unity.

“Our objective is clear. We must present candidates who are not only committed to the ideals of the ADC, but who also possess the capacity, credibility and electoral strength to win elections and effectively serve the Nigerian people.

“Our goal is not merely to produce flagbearers, but to field candidates capable of securing victory and advancing the vision of our great party.

“Let us therefore approach these matters with maturity, patience and faith in the institutions of our party.”

My Govt Will Tackle Underlying Causes Of Insecurity — Peter Obi

Ayodele Oni

May 30, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

A New Nigeria is possible if citizens can forget individual ambitions, Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Coalition, (NDC), has assured.

Obi, who spoke after emerging as the Presidential candidate of NDC added that: “This conviction has united us; it must serve as our compass on the challenging road ahead and sustain us through all trials we may face.

“This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi; it concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children. It is about rekindling hope for millions who have faced adversity yet remain committed to Nigeria.

“Today, our nation finds itself at a crucial juncture, enveloped in uncertainty. Families are anxious about their safety; parents are concerned for their children’s futures; and talented youth increasingly question their prospects in their homeland.

“Businesses are struggling, communities are suffering, and an alarming number of citizens have lost faith in the very concept of governance.

“Yet, I stand before you filled with optimism and strong faith in the resilience of our people, for I firmly believe that a New Nigeria is possible.

“To realise this New Nigeria, we must first mend the foundational elements essential for the success of any nation.

“Nigeria cannot advance while fragmented by ethnic, religious, regional, or narrow political divides. We may communicate in different languages and practise diverse faiths, but we share a singular destiny under one flag.

“Our diversity should not be a source of division; rather, it is among our greatest strengths.

“We should build bridges where others erect barriers, replace mistrust with confidence, division with understanding, and resentment with a collective purpose.

“A united Nigeria is indispensable. As Will Durant wisely pointed out, ‘A great civilisation is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.’ We must never self-destruct. We must heal, unify, and progress together.”

Obi, who decried alarming rate of insecurity in the country, maintained that

“the situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened.

“The global terrorism impact assessments ranked Nigeria as the 8th most affected nation in 2022, 6th in 2024, and 4th in 2026.

“Yet, for many years, Nigeria garnered global recognition as a reliable contributor to peacekeeping, regional stabilisation, and conflict resolution.

“Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts.

“Our officers and personnel have successfully commanded multiple international forces, safeguarded vulnerable civilian populations, monitored ceasefires, reinstated constitutional order, and contributed to rebuilding efforts.

“Nigeria became one of the leading contributors of troops from Africa to UN peacekeeping missions and earned widespread admiration for operational effectiveness and leadership in various countries, including Rwanda, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Western Sahara, Congo, Lebanon, Cambodia, Haiti, and Kuwait.

“At one point, a Nigeria, Lt. General Isaac Obiakor (retd) even led global peacekeeping initiatives.

“We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation. The primary responsibility of government is to ensure the safeguarding of lives and property.

“Farmers must be able to return to their fields securely; students must be able to learn without fear; communities must be able to rest peacefully; and investors must regain their confidence in Nigeria.

“Our strategy will be intelligence-driven, technology-enhanced, proactive, and community-focused.

“We will fortify our security institutions, enhance operational coordination, support our courageous personnel, and tackle the underlying causes of insecurity—namely poverty, unemployment, and marginalization.”

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