Home Blog Page 2

Revered Monarch, Onipokia Of Ipokia Kingdom, Oba Yisa Olaniyi Olaniyan Dies In USA

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Oba Yisa Olaniyi Olaniyan

By Akinwale Kasali

 

The Ogun State Government and the entire people of the ancient kingdom of Ipokia in Ogun State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden demise of the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan (Orijajoogun I), who joined his forebears after a brief illness in the United States of America.

 

Though the cause of the illness that led to his death is yet to emerge, but sources from the Palace and his close associates confirmed that the revered

Traditional Ruler died in the USA on Saturday.

 

The death of the First Class King marks an end to his illustrious reign that was widely associated with cultural revival, community development, and strong engagement with  Nigerians in diaspora.

 

The late Oba Olaniyan ascended the throne as the 46th Onipokia of the ancient Ipokia Kingdom in August 2020.

 

Prior to his ascension to the Throne as Oba, he had built an impressive professional career in the United States, where he studied Criminal Justice at the University of Houston-Downtown, worked in the aviation and oil and gas sectors, and later became involved in renewable energy and community development.

 

He was widely regarded as a modern Traditional Ruler who successfully bridged his international exposure with the customs and traditions of his homeland.

 

Throughout his reign, he consistently advocated for education, youth empowerment and investment in Ipokia, and stronger connections between the Kingdom and Nigerians in the diaspora.

 

He was also known for promoting peace and unity across Yewaland, while encouraging economic development in the border community.

 

Beyond the Palace, Oba Olaniyan earned recognition as the founder of the Afro-Heritage Broadcasting & Entertainment Awards, AHBEA, an initiative established to celebrate African entertainment personalities and cultural icons across the world.

 

Friends and associates described him as approachable, visionary, generous, and deeply passionate about preserving Yoruba cultural heritage while embracing innovation.

 

His leadership style earned him admiration among traditional rulers, professionals, entertainers, and members of the Nigerian diaspora and also at the home front.

 

His contributions to cultural preservation and community development received national recognition in 2025 when he was inducted into the Nigerian Books of Record Hall of Fame, with the institution describing him as a Monarch whose leadership combined tradition with modern development.

 

News of his death has attracted tributes from several Traditional Rulers, Political Leaders, Community Groups, and indigenes of Ipokia both at home and abroad, with many describing him as a Monarch whose vision extended beyond the Palace to the overall development of his people.

 

The Palace is expected to announce funeral arrangements and traditional rites in line with the customs of the ancient Ipokia Kingdom in the coming days.

How Police Detectives In Edo Foiled Fake Kidnap Attempt, Arrest Two Suspects

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Edo fake kidnap

By Ayodele Oni

 

Detectives attached to the Edo State Police Command have foiled a bid by two suspects to rip off family members through fake kidnapping.

 

Already, the two suspects identified as Lucky Alabi, 48, and Taiye Enahoro, 37, both of Uneme Akpama Community, have been arrested, and are helping detectives in their investigations.

 

The Two men, allegedly, staged a fake kidnap in a bid to extort N4 million from the family of one of the suspects.

 

The arrest of the suspects, was carried out by operatives of the Igarra Division, following what the police described as “intelligence-led investigations.”

 

Confirming the arrest in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, revealed that the suspects were apprehended after detectives uncovered the alleged plot.

 

The command explained that investigations revealed the alleged scheme was carried out on June 23, when one of the suspects reportedly contacted Alabi’s relatives and demanded a ransom.

 

The statement partly read, “The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that on 26th June, 2026, at about 1030hrs, operatives of Igarra Division arrested two suspects, Lucky Alabi ‘M’, 48 years, and Taiye Enahoro ‘M’, 37 years, both of Uneme Akpama Community, for conspiring to stage the fake kidnapping of Lucky Alabi.

 

“Acting on credible intelligence and through diligent investigative efforts, police operatives uncovered the deception and successfully arrested both suspects.

 

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the criminal plan was executed on 23rd June, 2026, when Taiye Enahoro allegedly placed several telephone calls to relatives of Lucky Alabi, falsely claiming that Alabi had been kidnapped and demanding the sum of N4,000,000 as ransom for his release.”

 

The police added that both suspects had admitted their involvement in the alleged crime and would be prosecuted after investigations were concluded.

 

The statement added, “The suspects have confessed to their respective roles in the staged kidnapping and will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.”

 

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Monday Agbonika, warned members of the public against engaging in criminal deception, including staging kidnappings to extort money from relatives.

 

“The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, warns members of the public against engaging in any form of criminal deception, including staging kidnappings to extort money from unsuspecting relatives.

 

“The command reiterates its commitment to ensuring all persons involved in criminal acts are brought to justice,” the statement quoted the CP to have said.

 

The command also urged residents to remain security-conscious a nd cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

 

It added, “Members of the public are urged to promptly report suspicious activities.”

“I Can Kidnap Governors, Access Confidential Security Briefs” – Kachalla Maha, Wanted Bandit Leader, Boasts

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Kachalla Maha
Kachalla Maha

By Ayodele Oni

 

“I swear to Almighty God that all the security forces  sent to attack my camp are my boys. They inform me whenever they are coming”

 

Reasons why it may take Nigeria years to win the war against insurgency are beginning to unfold as one of the most wanted Bandits’ leader reveals personnel in military sent after him are all his boys.

 

He also alleged that the military personnel furnish him with advance information each time they are coming to attack him.

 

Notorious Kachalla Maha, boasted that he has the ability to kidnap top government officials, including governors.

 

The terrorist leader also claimed to have deep access to confidential security information, alleging that he receives advance notice of military operations before they are launched.

 

The bandit kingpin spoke in a recorded audio message that surfaced on Sunday and was shared by X user, Abdool Moh.

 

Maha, in the audio, accused authorities of refusing to release his arrested associates and seized cattle, insisting that the government’s actions had pushed him into escalating violence across affected areas.

 

He said repeated efforts to secure the release of his men were ignored by authorities, leaving him with no intention of backing down.

 

“You arrested my men, and I asked for their release. You refused. I promised that I would abduct many people, and I already have targets.

 

“I asked why my men and Aminu were arrested. Since they were not released, I don’t care if they send thousands of soldiers.

 

“I am not tired, and I will not stop until I leave this world. I can kidnap top government officials, even a State governor.

 

“I swear to Almighty God that all the security forces sent to attack my camp are my boys. They inform me whenever they are coming.

 

“I receive information about security strategies, including those involving the President. It is only because I allow them to operate. Otherwise, they would not even be able to use the roads,” he said.

 

None of his boastings or wild claims has been confirmed but the question remains: If the Security Operatives to arrest him are his boys who tip him off and provide him with information, why does he kill them every now and then”?

 

At the time of filing this report, there has been no reaction from the Defence Headquarters.

Gov. Adeleke, Osun APC Condole Ajibola Basiru On Mother’s Passing

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Senator Ajibola Bashiru - APC National Secretary
Senator Ajibola Bashiru, APC National Secretary

By Ayodele Oni

 

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has mourned the passing of the mother of the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru.

 

Also the Osun State chapter of the APC has consoled with Basiru over the death.

 

The Governor, in a statement on Monday by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, extendrd the governor’s heartfelt condolences to Senator Basiru, the entire Basiru family, and all loved ones of the deceased, describing the loss of a mother as a deeply painful experience.

 

 He urged the family to take solace in her exemplary life as a devoted Muslim and in the enduring legacy of faith, values, and service she left behind.

 

 Governor Adeleke prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives her shortcomings, accept her good deeds, grants her eternal rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and comforts the bereaved family.

 

He also prayed for Senator Basiru and the entire family to be granted the strength and patience to bear the irreparable loss.

 

 “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Osun State, I extend my sincere condolences to Senator Ajibola Basiru and the entire Basiru family.

 

“May Almighty Allah grant Mama Al-Jannatul Firdaus and give the family the fortitude to bear this painful loss. Ameen.”

 

Osun APC, in a condolence message in Osogbo and signed by the party’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, described her passing as a painful loss, not only to the immediate family but also to all who came in contact with her exemplary life.

 

The party said her death was in accordance with the will of Almighty Allah, who gives and takes life at His appointed time, and urged the bereaved family to accept the loss with faith and total submission.

 

Noting that death is inevitable, the APC said the loss of a caring mother and respected matriarch leaves an irreplaceable vacuum.

 

It described the late Mrs Basiru as a virtuous woman whose life was defined by humility, kindness, discipline, and unwavering devotion to the service of Allah and humanity.

 

The party added that it stands in solidarity with Mr Basiru and his family at this difficult time, acknowledging the deep grief that accompanies the loss of a beloved mother.

 

It prayed that Almighty Allah grants the family the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

 

The APC further noted that the greatest tribute to the deceased lies in the enduring legacy of good character, moral upbringing, and service to humanity she instilled in her children, particularly Mr Basiru, whose commitment to public service continues to inspire many within and beyond the party.

Why House of Reps. Member, Amobi Ogar, Was Remanded In Custody On Execution Of Warrant Of Arrest Order …Case Adjourned To July 6

By
The Source
-
0
Amobi Godwin Ogar

By Gideon Njoku

 

The House of Representatives Member, representing Isikwuato Federal Constituency, Honourable Amobi Godwin Ogar, was, on the orders of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, arrested and committed to the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja.

 

The  committal order was issued by Justice Yusuf Halilu  shortly after Ogar, was arrested and brought before the court.

 

Dated June 24, 2026, a Thursday, the committal  order is to the effect that the Federal Lawmaker, should remain in the custody of the Kuje Correctional Centre until July 6, the day the case was adjourned to.

 

Unconfirmed reports,  because no contrary Court order has been made public, however, say he is already out of custody pending the July 6 date for the resumption of the case.

 

His problem stemmed from alleged criminal defamation and false declaration.

 

Titled *Warrant of Commitment to Prison,* the Court order  indicate that Ogar is standing trial in Charge No. CR/650/2024,  and  reads in part:

 

“The Officer in Charge of the prison at Kuje, whereas the above-named person has been arrested and brought before me, accused of the offences of   criminal defamation and false declaration, you are hereby authorised and required to receive him and detain him in custody until further order; provided that, if no further order has been  as to his disposal before July 6, 2026, you shall deliver him to a police officer to bring him before me with this warrant for an order as to his disposal.”

 

The Lawmakers problem began when the Federal Government, on July 31, 2024, filed a five-count criminal charge against him. The charges  border on alleged criminal defamation and false declaration.

 

The Lawmaker in count one, was alleged to have, in May 2023, sworn to a false affidavit at the registry of the FCT High Court, Abuja, dated May 18, 2023, against Hon. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, then Minister of State for Labour and Employment, in which he claimed, allegedly, that, during a meeting with her (former Minister’s) supporters at her  residence, she told them that  she had “bought over” the Tribunal Judges, particularly Hon. Justice Halima Saleeman.

 

The charge said Ogar  knew the allegation was false, and so,  committed an offence contrary to Section 164 of the Penal Code, Cap. 89, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1963, punishable under Section 158(2) of the same Act.

 

In count two, Ogar was accused of making a second false and defamatory declaration in the same affidavit dated May 18, 2023, in which he  alleged that the former Minister influenced the removal of the former chairman of the panel, Hon. Justice Halilu, to pave the way for Hon. Justice Halima Saleeman, whom she allegedly knew personally and who would deliver judgment in her favour.

 

The prosecution insist that the statement was not only  false but constitute an offence contrary to Section 391 of the Penal Code, Cap. 89, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1963, punishable under Section 392 of the same Act.

 

Count five reads: “That you, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, male, 44 years, a member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, sometime in May 2023, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court in the FCT, Abuja, committed an offence by making a false declaration against Hon. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Federal Republic of Nigeria, with intent to destroy her reputation, as a result of which she suffered harm to her reputation, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 393 of the Penal Code, Cap. 89, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1963, and punishable under the same section of the Act.”

 

 There is no love lost, politically, between former Minister Onyejeocha and Honourable Ogar. The two battled, in 2023, for the Isikwuato/Umunneoche Federal Constituency. Even though the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had declared Onyejeocha, then the incumbent Federal Lawmaker winner, she was sacked by the Court and Ogar declared the duly elected Member of the House of Representatives seat.

 

Onyejeocha was, thereafter,  appointed by President Bola Tinubu as the Minister of State, Labour. A couple of months ago, she resigned her Ministerial appointment in obedience to the President’s order that any Government appointee, interested in elective does so.

 

A former Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, she has secured the nod of his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, to run again for the Federal seat.

Bandits Invade Borno School, Kill Teacher, Abduct Unspecified Number Of Students

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Gunmen

By Ayodele Oni

 

A fresh attack on Monday, April 29, by suspected bandits on a secondary school in Borno State, has left a teacher dead, and abducted a yet-to-be confirmed number of students.

 

The incident happened at Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, a border community with Adamawa State.

 

The Special Adviser to Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, on Media and Strategy, Mr Solomon Kwamagar, a resident of Lassa, confirmed the incident.

 

He disclosed that the attackers arrived on motorcycles and invaded the school.

 

“Today is Lassa market day. I was informed that they came through the market on motorcycles and went to Government Day Secondary School, Lassa.

 

“They shot and killed one teacher and took away all the students who were in their classrooms.

 

“Lassa in Borno State is predominantly inhabited by my people, the Margi. We are in both Adamawa and Borno states. I am from Lassa, but I chose to reside in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

 

“I’m still making contacts to ascertain the total number of students and teachers who were kidnapped from the school.”

Kwara Gov. AbdulRazaq Sacks Appointees

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State

By Ayodele Oni

 

Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle as part of moves to rejig governance in the state.

 

In the exercise, several political appointees were relieved of their positions, as the administration moved forward towards its end.

 

The decision was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood AbdulRafiu Agboola, saying it’s part of efforts to broaden participation in governance and strengthen service delivery.

 

The affected officials include all Special Advisers, Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants, as well as the Deputy Chief of Staff and the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor.

 

According to the statement, the exercise is intended to create opportunities for more members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contribute to governance while injecting fresh energy into the administration.

 

Governor AbdulRazaq commended the affected appointees for their commitment and invaluable contributions to the development of Kwara State during their tenure.

 

“His Excellency expresses his gratitude to all the appointees for their priceless service to the state. He wishes them the best in their future endeavours,” the statement said.

 

The Governor also directed all affected appointees to hand over all government property in their possession to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government without delay.

 

The reshuffle marks another phase in the administration’s ongoing efforts to reposition government institutions for greater efficiency and improved service delivery as it advances its development agenda across the State.

Gunmen Kill Seven Vigilante Members In Katsina

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Gunmen - Kidnappers

By Ayodele Oni 

 

Seven members of local vigilante group and two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) list their life as suspected bandits invaded Ketare town in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

 

The gunmen suspected to be bandits launched an attack on Ketare town in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, Sunday evening, killing at least seven local defenders, including two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

 

It was gathered that the heavily armed assailants stormed the community, but met fierce resistance from vigilante groups and CJTF personnel, forcing them to retreat after an intense exchange of gunfire.

 

However, the victory came at a heavy cost as seven local defenders reportedly lost their lives while protecting the community from the attackers.

 

Security analyst, Bakatsine disclosed on Monday that the bandits failed to overrun the town but inflicted significant casualties on those defending it.

 

Bakatsine lamented the human cost of the recurring attacks, noting that each casualty represented a grieving family and a community forced to live under the constant threat of violence.

 

“Last night, bandits attempted to attack Ketare town in Malumfashi LGA of Katsina State, but were repelled after a prolonged gun battle with vigilantes and CJTF personnel.

 

“The town may have survived the attack, but the pain remains. At least seven defenders, including two CJTF personnel, were reportedly killed.

 

“Behind every casualty is a family that won’t be the same again, children who have lost fathers, and a community forced to grieve while living under the constant shadow of violence. 

 

“No community should have to endure this cycle of fear and loss,” Bakatsine added.

NDC Deregistration: Atiku Raises Alarm Over Fresh Plan To Bar ADC From 2027 Polls

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Atiku Abubakar
Atiku Abubakar

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

Just back from a trip abroad, the Presidential candidate of  the African Democratic Congress ADC,

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has alerted on a fresh plot to frustrate and keep the party out of the ballot box in 2027.

 

His alarm  comes amidst spirited efforts by the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, to extricate itself from a judicial ambush that threatens to deregister, and prevent it from participating in the elections.

 

In statement issued on Monday, June 29, 2026, by Phrank Shuaibu, his spokesperson, Abubakar raised concerns over what he described as a new but coordinated attempt by desperate political schemers within the establishment to manipulate and compromise the democratic arrangement with a view to denying Nigerians their constitutionally guaranteed rights to freely choose their leaders.

 

The ADC presidential hopeful, disclosed that he has been availed of credible intelligence indicating well orchestrated efforts by the powers-that-be to deploy conceivable political and legal machinations at its disposal to prevent ADC from participating in the 2026 general elections.

 

Abubakar accused the ruling APC of being so obsessed with the task of suppressing opposition parties that it has completely abandoned governance, even as Nigerians continue to battle hunger, inflation, unemployment, insecurity and collapsing purchasing power.

 

The former Vice President wondered why the ruling party is so terrified and jittery, even with all its claims of achievements.

 

” We are fully aware of their plots. While they seek to sow confusion within the opposition, we know their real target is the ADC because it represents the most credible alternative.

 

“We, therefore, call on all Nigerians not just ADC members and supporters to rise in defence of democracy, and reject any attempt by the ruling party to cherry-pick which opposition parties are permitted to participate in the next general elections.

 

“Our message to the APC and the hooded men plotting in dark chambers is simple: you may conspire, but you will not succeed.

 

“If the APC is truly confident about its popularity, why is it so terrified of the ADC?

 

“The pattern has become all too familiar. First, institutions that ought to be neutral are drawn into partisan contests. Then, frivolous litigations suddenly gain unusual momentum. Administrative powers are selectively deployed. Political pressure is mounted behind closed doors. Before long democracy itself becomes the casualty.

 

“The obsession with silencing the opposition has become so consuming that governance itself has taken a back seat.

 

“At a time when Nigerians are battling hunger, inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and collapsing purchasing power, those entrusted with public office appear preoccupied with political survival rather than national survival ” the ADC presidential candidate stated.

 

This is as he warned that no Government any where in the world has the authority to determine the political preferences of the citizens.

 

Abubakar maintained that any attempt to prevent the ADC from participating in the 2027 elections would stand as one of the gravest assaults on Nigeria’s constitutional democracy,since the advent of the fourth republic.

 

“No administration has the constitutional authority to determine which political party Nigerians are permitted to vote for.

 

“Sovereignty belongs to the people, not to those who temporarily wield power. The ballot is sacred, and every attempt to tamper with it is an attack on the Republic itself”. Abubakar warned

 

The ADC presidential candidate similarly called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, security agencies, civil society groups, the diplomatic community and all stakeholders in democratic principles to remain vigilant against any action capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

Osun: Gov. Adeleke Lauds IGP Over Intervention In Political Crisis

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor Ademola Adeleke
Governor Ademola Adeleke

By Ayodele Oni 

 

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has welcomed the intervention of the Inspector General of Police, (IGP) Tunji Disu,  in the violence trailing the August election in the state.

 

The governor lauded the IGP intervention, which led to the reported arrest of an alleged political thug, Saheed Tanfeani.

 

‎Tanfeani is alleged to have been involved in the gruesome killing of teenager, Ezekiel Olapade, around the premises of the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat last Sunday.

 

‎In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, Adeleke described the arrest as a positive development and urged the police to intensify efforts to apprehend other wanted suspects.

 

‎The governor called for the arrest of Asiri Eniba, Delaw, Ojuyobo, Aleba, Lucifer, Lasisi and others alleged to be terrorising parts of the state.

IGP Tunji Disu
IGP Tunji Disu

‎Governor Adeleke also urged the police to ensure a thorough investigation and diligent prosecution of the suspect.

 

‎The Governor who emphasized a change in the leadership of the state’s Anti-Cultism Unit, expressed concern over the continued leadership of the unit by an officer identified as Eluku, whom he alleged has links with some of the wanted suspects.

 

‎According to him, the arrest of Tanfeani and Akilapa was a welcome development, adding that the government would continue to monitor the police’s commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring the safety of residents.

123...2,969Page 2 of 2,969