I Only Sympathized With Senators Who Lost APC Primary Election, No Promise Of Ticket – Akpabio

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June 6, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has clarified that he never promised to secure senatorial return tickets for Senators who lost at the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections.

He explained that he only empathized with Senators that were affected negatively by the outcome of their respective primary elections.

Akpabio’s clarification was made public on Saturday in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Eseme Sunday Eyiboh

The clarification occasioned by reports in sections of the media suggesting that the President of the Senate promised to secure senatorial tickets for senators who lost their party primaries.

The statement read partly “The attention of the Office of the President of the Senate has been drawn to misleading reports circulating in sections of the media suggesting that the President of the Senate has promised to secure senatorial tickets for senators who lost their party primaries.

“We must categorically assert that this report does not reflect the position of the President of the Senate.

“For the record, Senator Akpabio has neither made nor authorized to be made such promise.

“What the President of the Senate actually said, in the course of interacting with his colleagues, was to empathize with senators who were affected negatively by the outcome of their primary elections.

“He assured them that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), is actively working to address all issues arising from the primaries and that the final list of candidates will be released in due course in line with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

“Senator Akpabio remains committed to party discipline, due process, and the internal mechanisms of the APC for resolving disputes.

“He will not interfere with the autonomous processes of the party or make commitments that are outside the purview of the National Assembly leadership.

“The office also notes another report quoting a distinguished Senator on the need for the Senate to probe the military over recent security incidents.

“While legislative oversight is a constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio’s position is that this is not the opportune moment for a public probe of the Armed Forces.

“At a time when our troops are engaged on multiple fronts against terrorism, banditry and other threats to National Security, subjecting the military to a public legislative inquisition could undermine their morale and operational focus.

“The Senate President believes strongly that support, collaboration and closed-door engagements with security agencies are more productive at this critical time.

“Oversight will be exercised responsibly, without creating distractions that embolden adversaries or divert attention from the urgent task of securing Nigeria and its people”, he said

Senator Akpabio then urged the media and the public to disregard sensational and inaccurate misrepresentation of his remarks and to always seek clarification from his office before publication.

CD Seeks Inclusion Of Volunteers In Oyo Abduction Rescue Effort

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Ayodele Oni

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June 6, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

The Campaign for Democracy (CD) has advised the Federal and Oyo state governments to allow Volunteers like the Yoruba Activist, Sunday Igboho to join in rescue effort of the school children and teachers abducted in Ogbomosho.

The pro-democracy group expressed rage and grief over the continued captivity of Nigerian children in kidnappers’ enclaves, hidden deep within the forests of Oyo State and beyond.

“This is not mere insecurity. It is state-abetted terrorism against defenseless citizens.”

CD spoke through a statement in Akure, Ondo state, signed by the chairman, Rev. Ifeanyi Odili.

CD stated that “We therefore issue this statement to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the Federal Government of Nigeria:

“Immediately rescind every policy, order, or conspiracy that prevents Nigerians from penetrating these forests.

“Throw open every forest, every hideout, every den where our children are being tortured, raped, and sold like cattle. The blood of the innocent cries louder than any press releases.

“For months, Mr. Sunday Igboho, a son of the soil who has repeatedly volunteered his life, resources, and men, has demanded access to these forests to smoke out the kidnappers.

“The response of the Oyo State Government has been obstruction, intimidation, and deliberate sabotage.

This is not governance. This is complicity.

“The reckless refusal of the Oyo State Government validates the explosive allegation by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, that Governor Makinde’s administration is neck-deep in the criminal enterprise fueling insecurity in the state.

“When a government blocks citizens from rescuing their own children, that government has questions to answer before God and history.

“Let the facts be restated without apology: Our children are rotting in kidnappers’ dens as we speak, a man has volunteered to rescue them at his own risk, the government has chosen to protect the kidnappers instead.

“On what constitutional, moral, or human grounds is this wickedness premised? What secret pact exists between the corridors of power and the forests of death?

“The kidnapping epidemic in Oyo has lasted months, not hours. The conclusion is unavoidable unless Governor Makinde proves us wrong — by action, not grammar.

“CD therefore calls on all political gladiators, traditional rulers, and security chiefs to stop trading with Nigerian blood.

“No election, no zoning, no political calculation is worth the life of one child. Life is sacred. Life is non-negotiable to every right-thinking Nigerian.

“Hear this final warning: If this government-sponsored reign of terror continues, if our children are not freed and these forests are not sanitized within days, CD will lead Nigerians into a mass campaign for an alternative political order.

“We will not beg forever while bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists operate like a parallel government with the tacit support of compromised Nigerian politicians.

“The patience of the people is exhausted. The excuses are expired. The time for cosmetic committees and empty condolences is over.”

No Abducted Oyo School Child Died In Captivity – Police Clarifies

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 6, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed claims suggesting that one of the school children kidnapped from Ahoro/Esiele schools ,in Oriire Local Council has died in the abductors’ den.

The Source reports that the social media space has been inundated with reports of the death of one of the little pupils –teenage girl who reportedly could endure the harsh conditions in captivity no more.

But in a statement on Friday, Ayanlade Olayinka, the spokesperson for the Oyo police authorities described the reported death as false, misleading, mischievous and totally baseless.

The police maintained that no security agencies and other outfits involved in the ongoing rescue efforts has recorded or confirmed such a development.

The statement described the reports as a deliberate and orchestrated fabrication, intended to incite the publicas well as undermine the ongoing efforts at rescuing the victims.

“The publication is a fabrication carefully crafted by individuals whose objective is to arouse unnecessary public sentiment, create panic , spread fear, and undermine ongoing security operations”, the police stated.

This was as it reaffirmed the unflinching commitment of security agencies towards ensuring the safe release of the abducted school children..

Olayinka emphasized that the joint security agencies are maintaining active, highly confidential and professional operations to ensure a successful rescue of the victims.

Nigeria, China Deepen Cooperation In Electricity, Industrial Development

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Ayodele Oni

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June 6, 2026

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Dr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe with HE Yu Dunhai

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian government has moved further the quest to improve power generation and boost infrastructure and industrial development, with high level talks with China

Nigeria is being led at the high-level talks by its Director-General, Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) Dr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe while the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Yu Dunhai is standing for his country.

The talks centered on deepening bilateral cooperation across critical sectors including electricity, infrastructure and industrial development.

A media statement in Abuja revealed that the discussions, holding in Abuja, primarily centred on advancing the strategic partnership between both countries and identifying concrete opportunities for deeper collaboration in areas considered vital to Nigeria’s economic growth and modernisation agenda.

At the talks, Ambassador Yu formally congratulated Tegbe on his appointment as Minister of Power, acknowledging his pivotal role in strengthening ties between Nigeria and China under the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework.

The ambassador reaffirmed Beijing’s firm commitment to working with Nigeria to implement the outcomes of the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit and all bilateral agreements concluded by the leaders of both nations.

Ambassador Yu underscored the strategic importance of sustained cooperation in energy, power infrastructure and development projects, framing closer engagement in these sectors as essential to elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership to a higher level and generating measurable benefits for citizens of both countries.

Responding, Tegbe reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to deepening its relationship with China, describing the Asian giant as an indispensable development partner.

He expressed appreciation for China’s consistent support of Nigeria’s socio-economic development and pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Chinese Embassy and relevant institutions to advance practical initiatives across priority sectors, including power infrastructure, manufacturing and modern agricultural development.

The minister affirmed that enhanced Nigeria-China cooperation would not only accelerate the achievement of Nigeria’s development objectives, but also contribute to broader continental efforts aimed at promoting modernisation and sustainable development across Africa.

Replicate Forests Guards In All States – NDC Presidential Candidate, Obi, Advises FG

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Ayodele Oni

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June 6, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

Peter Obi, Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has advised that all the 36 states should benefit from forests guards, a Federal Government initiative to curtail banditry.

Obi criticised President Bola Tinubu’s reported plan to recruit 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State, calling it a “reactive” fix that ignores Nigeria’s wider security crisis.

In an X post titled “What Our Pervasive Insecurity Requires: A Holistic, Not Reactive Approach,” Obi said the move shows “inadequate leadership and a reactive strategy” to a problem affecting nearly all 36 states.

He compared it to the abrupt fuel subsidy removal and Naira devaluation, which he said caused “significant and lasting harm” to citizens and the economy.

“While increasing security personnel is important, such measures must follow a structured, well-thought-out process,” Obi stated through his spokesman, Ibrahim Umar.

The former Anambra governor questioned whether the Oyo model would be replicated nationwide. “If Oyo gets 1,000 guards, will this be extended uniformly to all states — totalling 37,000 guards for the 36 states and Abuja?

“Or are such decisions arbitrary and dependent on the President’s disposition?” he asked.

Obi flagged Oyo, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Borno, Katsina, Anambra, Niger, Imo, and Sokoto as states with “particularly alarming” insecurity.

He also warned about overlap with existing regional outfits like Amotekun Corps in the South-West, which he said are already working to secure the region.

Obi Calls for a Holistic Approach to the Insecurity Challenges

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The Source

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June 6, 2026

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Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has once again criticised the government’s passive and uncoordinated response to the nation’s severe insecurity problems.

In a recent post on his X account, titled “What Our Pervasive Insecurity Requires: A Holistic, Not Reactive Approach,” the former governor of Anambra State expressed his deep concern over the ongoing security crisis. He pointed to President Bola Tinubu’s reported approval to recruit approximately 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State as a clear indication of inadequate leadership and a reactive strategy for addressing critical governance and security issues.

Obi drew a parallel between this approach and the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the Naira, which he argued have inflicted significant and lasting harm on ordinary citizens and the national economy. While acknowledging the importance of increasing security personnel nationwide, he stressed that such measures should be implemented through a more structured and carefully considered process.

He highlighted that insecurity is a widespread problem affecting nearly all 36 states, with Oyo, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Borno, Katsina, Anambra, Niger, Imo, and Sokoto experiencing particularly alarming situations. Obi questioned whether approval for forest guard recruitment in Oyo would be extended uniformly to all states, totalling 37,000 guards across the 36 states and Abuja, or whether such decisions are arbitrary and dependent on the President’s disposition.

Furthermore, he raised concerns about the potential impact on existing security outfits, such as the Amotekun Corps in the South-West, which are actively working to secure the region. Obi asserted that the pervasive insecurity is a direct consequence of systemic failures, particularly in leadership. He attributed the deaths of over 10,000 innocent Nigerians since 2023 and Nigeria’s ranking among the world’s most terror-affected countries to this leadership deficit.

According to Obi, effectively tackling insecurity necessitates a comprehensive, or ‘ecosystem,’ approach.

He concluded by stating that leadership failures lead to a breakdown in national unity, industrial development, the effective utilisation of the nation’s vast resources in agriculture, minerals, tourism, water, sports, and even oil and gas for revenue generation, economic growth, and crucially, job creation for the burgeoning youth population. Obi expressed optimism that a new, prosperous Nigeria is achievable.

Tension As Soludo Arraigns Eight Suspected Fake Pastors, Prophets

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The Source

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June 6, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Outrage greets, especially, the arraignment of Bishop Nwankpa who is, also, the Senatorial Candidate of the NDC for Abia Central

The Christian Community in Anambra State has been thrown into deep shock over what it described as Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s orchestrated plot to clampdown on freedom of worship in the State.

The Anambra State Government which has been waging war against what it perceives as the unwholesome activities of fake native doctors, herbalists,and spiritualists, on Monday June 4, 2026, upped the ante with the arraignment of the General Overseer of the popular Onitsha-based Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly International Bishop Emeka Nwankpa and seven Ministers of God, over alleged fake pastoring activities.

The Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, leads the prosecution of Bishop Nwankpa ,and others ,in what has been perceived as part of Soludo’s administration crackdown on fake Pastors, Native Doctors and spiritualists who are alleged to be exploiting the public, as well as enabling criminal syndicates across the State.

The accused who were arraigned before the state High Court in Awka, the State capital, are alleged by the authorities to have run foul of the provisions of the Anambra State Home Security Law, 2025, targeting fake native doctors, traditionalist, and others engaged in money ritual related activities.

But the arraignment of Bishop Nwankpa, the Accord Party Governorship candidate for Abia State during the 2023 general elections and, presently, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Senatorial candidate for Abia Central District, has sparked widespread indignation and, condemnations across the State, with not a few impugning political motives into the development.

A statement on Friday, from Dr Stanley Nduaguibe, the Head of his media team, while expressing shock and disbelief over the arrest and prosecution of Bishop Nwankpa, described the development as a clear case of political persecution.

According to the team, the arrest and arraignment of Bishop Nwankpa over alleged fake activities, appear to suggest a politically motivated move to silence a minister of God who have been in the pastoring job for over two decades.

“Bishop Nwankpa is the General Overseer of Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly International ,a church with its headquarters in Onitsha, and branches in various parts of Nigeria.

“For over twenty-five years, he has been actively engaged in Christian Ministry, preaching the Gospel, mentoring believers, conducting charitable activities, and providing spiritual leadership to thousands of worshipers.

“The Church headquarters at 3-3 Junction, Onitsha, has become a well-known centre of worship with congregation numbering over one thousand members.

“Throughout the years, the ministry has remained visible and accessible to the public, carrying out its religious activities openly and consistently.

“Against this background, many observers have expressed surprise at the decision to arrest and arraign Bishop Nwankpa on allegations that appear inconsistent with his long and publicly established record of pastoring service.

“Ouestions naturally arise as to how a minister who has openly led a recognised Church for more than two decades could suddenly be described as a “fake pastor” without clear and compelling evidence being presented to the public.

“While every citizen is subject to the law, and no one should be placed above legitimate investigation, it is equally important that allegations are handled with fairness, objectivity, and due regard for the rights and reputation of those involved.

“The presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of justice, and must be respected until competent court reaches a final determination”, Nduaguibe stated

The media team further noted that the circumstances surrounding Bishop Nwankpa’s arrest have led many to wonder whether factors beyond the stated allegations may have influenced the action taken by the Anambra state Government.

Dr Nduaguibe emphasized that such public concerns underscore the need for transparency and adherence to due process in order to maintain public confidence in the administration of justice.

“We, therefore, call on relevant authorities to ensure that this matter is handled professionally, fairly and without prejudice.

“Any investigation should be guided strictly by facts, evidence, and the rule of law rather than speculation, sentiment or external influence”, the media team added.

This was as they appealed to the public, members of the Church, as well as well-wishers to remain peaceful, law-abiding and prayerful.

Baba-Ahmed Lashes President Tinubu

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Akinwale Kasali

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June 5, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

President Bola Tinubu has been lashed by the National Leader of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, over the worsening insecurity in the country.

He strongly criticized President Tinubu over the inability of his administration to adequately protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

Recall that Baba-Ahmed served as an aide to President Tinubu. But has now urged him to step down before the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise Television’s, the PRP leader said: “It’s clear Tinubu has no handle on the escalating menace. Everything that needed to be said by the media, National Assembly, and civil societies have been said, but Tinubu and his supporters believe that this is a problem that we can live with.

“They suggested it by their body language, everywhere they can and children are stolen, every inch of Nigeria is now vulnerable.

“In a civilized society, Tinubu’s record on insecurity should have cost him his seat a long time ago, it’s not too late to say that President Tinubu should resign. If you check what he’s doing between now and the election, we don’t even need to wait, we will reject him.

“Do we need to wait until more children and the country is overrun by criminality? The position that Tinubu should resign, there is nothing wrong or partisan or confrontation in that statement.

“In a democratic setting, the President performs two basic tasks, one is to protect the citizens and the other is to protect the means.

“Now Tinubu has failed to protect anybody, again, like I said, every part of Nigeria is now vulnerable. Children and toddlers in school are being stolen, what do you say to a president who has failed?.

“Sir you cannot run this country so please step down. It’s not a party thing, it’s not a confrontational thing but the right thing to do”, he said.

Ondo Rallies Security Apparatus Following Abduction Of Nine Years Old Boy By Gunmen

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Ayodele Oni

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June 5, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Government has intensified security operations following an early Friday morning attack by gunmen of a community in Ode local government.

Report revealed that during the attack, a nine years old boy was abducted while his father managed to escape.

‎The state government expressed concern over the reported attack on Igbosi Community, Idogun in Ose Local Government Area and the abduction of a nine-year-old boy in the community.

The commissioner for information, Idowu Ajanaku, in a statement stated that “The government has called for calm while the security agencies are on top of the situation.

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‎”Immediately the government was informed of the development, a coordinated security response was activated.

“Personnel of the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the military were mobilised and have since commenced intensive combing operations within the community, the surrounding forests, and other strategic locations within and beyond the area of the incident.

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‎”The Ondo State Government wishes to assure residents that the security situation is being closely monitored and professionally managed by relevant agencies.

“Preliminary security measures have already been strengthened in the affected axis, while intelligence gathering and search operations are ongoing to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.

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‎”The government urges citizens, particularly residents of Ose Local Government Area and neighbouring communities, to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security personnel.

“Members of the public are also encouraged to provide useful information that may assist ongoing operations through established security channels.

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‎”The administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa remains unwavering in its commitment to the protection of lives and property across Ondo State.

“Government is confident that the ongoing joint security operation will yield positive results.

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‎”The Ondo State Government appreciates the swift response of all security agencies involved in the operation and calls on the good people of the state to say something when they see something.”

Tbe statement also urged the people to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic, while continuing to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security throughout the state.

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Insecurity: Oyo Gov. Makinde Restricts Okada Operation

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Ayodele Oni

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June 5, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

As part of security measures to protect the State, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has announced a restriction on the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders.

They are now to operate between 10:30 a m and 5:30 p.m. across the state as part of fresh security measures aimed at tackling rising insecurity.

The governor made the announcement during a statewide broadcast on Friday, June 5, amid growing concerns over the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.

Makinde said the decision formed part of broader efforts by his administration to strengthen security and support ongoing operations to secure the release of victims currently in captivity.

Addressing residents, the governor reassured families of the abducted victims that the state government remained committed to their safe return.

“We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home. Every day they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities, and all of us in Oyo State,” he said.

“I want to assure our people that efforts are ongoing around the clock to ensure the safe return of the victims. Their rescue remains the top priority of this administration. They have not been forgotten, and they have not been abandoned.”

Makinde noted that details of ongoing rescue efforts could not be fully disclosed due to the sensitive nature of the operations, but insisted that security agencies were actively working to secure the victims’ freedom.

“We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved.

“However, I ask our people not to mistake our silence for inaction. A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes, and we remain fully engaged with all relevant security agencies,” he added.

Announcing the new restriction, the governor said commercial motorcycle operators would no longer be allowed to operate during the specified hours throughout the state.

“With the signing of this Executive Order, we are also introducing additional measures to enhance security across our state.

“Consequently, the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30 a.m and 5:30 p.m throughout Oyo State.”

He further urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, stressing that maintaining security requires collective effort.

“We can create laws, but their success ultimately depends on the cooperation of our people. This is another opportunity to remind us all that security is a shared responsibility. If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something.”

The development comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.

The situation worsened days later when one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the abductors.

Public concern intensified after a video surfaced online showing Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Esiele, who is among those being held captive. In the video, she appealed for urgent intervention, revealing that the kidnappers had threatened to kill another victim if their demands were not met.

The abductions have triggered widespread outrage across the state, leading to protests by members of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and other concerned groups demanding immediate action from authorities.