Ondo AG, Ajulo Sues For Peace As Momodu, Fani- Kayode, Verbal War Rages

March 20, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Attorney General and commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo SAN, has joined prominent Nigerians and traditional ruler to mediate in the ongoing verbal attacks between the publisher of Ovation magazine, Dele Momodu and Ambassador Femi Fani- Kayode.

The duo had in the past few days engaged in war of words over political differences, exposing their ugly past on social media.

Ajulo, a close ally of the two, in an open letter, appealed to them to display the Yoruba traits, one of which is Omoluabi.

Ajulo ‘s letter : “Bashorun Dele Momodu, the compass from Ile-Ife whose quiet calls in the my earlier days first taught me that a true elder does not merely advise but lights the path, and

Sadauna Femi Fani-Kayode, the indomitable lion whose fire I once had the solemn honour of defending, emerging victorious not by force but by the quiet architecture of justice, I write to you not as a junior, but as one who has drunk deeply from the wells you dug.

“I have watched and read with the ache of a son who loves two fathers. Your minds have met in battle like thunderclouds on the horizon; brilliant, electric, impossible to ignore.

“Yet an old Yoruba saying sits between us like a patient elder: Bi erin meji ba ji, koriko a gbagbe oruko Igbo: when two elephants fight, the grass does more than suffer; it forgets the name of the forest that gave it life.

“There is truth here that cuts deeper than rhetoric: the people, our people, are the forest, and their remembering is what binds us.

“Conflict between kindred spirits is not always sin; it can be the kiln in which truth is hardened. Heraclitus taught that strife shapes being, and our own Yoruba orunmila whispers that wisdom is found where questions meet. But strife without resolution is a wound left to fester. The logos, the balance that binds, must be sought, or the very fabric of our shared life frays.

“The Yoruba speak of oju Otito; the face of truth and the axiom of omoluabi: character measured by how one treats the community. I call on you to show that same omoluabi now.

“Not for applause, not for convenience, but because Nigeria, because Yorubaland, because the generations who will inherit our mistakes and our triumphs, deserve leaders who can rise above ego and choose legacy.

“Make peace, not as surrender, but as transcendence. Make reconciliation not as a pause in the war, but as a promise of new work. Let March 2026 be remembered not as the month when titans traded blows, but as the month when two of our brightest sons chose to be a single light for the nation; one the keeper of memory, the other the guardian of conscience; and together made history.

“I offer myself to that work; not merely as mediator with words and legal instruments you once trusted me with, but as a fellow traveller committed to the slow, patient labour of rebuilding trust. Call me, and I will come; speak, and I will listen; act, and I will stand with you.

“May the spirits of our ancestors; the wise ones of Ile-Ife, the teachers of Ori and Iwa; bear witness to this choice.

“May your names be spoken in future houses not with rancour but with gratitude: two men who, having known the thunder, learned how to bring rain.With deepest respect, abiding affection, and the unshakeable conviction that greater men have always chosen peace after the storm,

Dr. Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN

…for the people

APC Issues 72-hour Ultimatum Over Alleged Compromise Of An FCT Judge

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 20, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The All Progressive Congress, APC, has debunked claims by the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, suggesting that the Kano State authorities allegedly paid out millions of Naira to influence the court In a recent case involving the party in Abuja.

This is as the APC issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Kano State Chapter of the NNPP to either withdraw the offensive allegation or face a legal action.

The Source reports that the the faction of the NNPP loyal to the Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso-led Kwankwasiyya movement had, on Tuesday, accused the APC-led Kano state Government of engaging in underhand dealings that resulted in what it described as the pervasion of Justice by a Federal Capital Territory FCT High Court.

An FCT High Court had earlier on Tuesday ruled to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from recognizing or engaging with any other leadership of the NNPP apart from the one led by Dr Agbo Gilbert Major.

However, the verdict did not go down well with the Kwankansiyya-backed NNPP faction who described the decision of the Court to assume jurisdiction over a matter that is already before the Court of Appeal, as a blatant and brazen abuse of the judicial process.

In a statement from Ladipo Johnson, its National Publicity Secretary, the Kwankwasiyya movement-backed faction noted that the FCT High Court action represents a new and dangerous low in the country’s judiciary history.

While describing the judgment and the action of the Judge as a textbook example of judicial rascality in which a Court of coordinate jurisdiction audaciously sat on a matter before a Court of Appeal, the NNPP faction alleged a grand and desperate plot to destabilise the party ahead of the 2027 election..

The Kano State Chapter of the faction, was to amplify the situation late on Tuesday , with an allegation that the Kano state Government ,in collaboration with the APC, employed monetary inducement in securing the FCT High Court ruling.

But reacting to the development,the Kano state APC dismissed the allegations by the Kano NNPP spokesperson Ibrahim Karaye as baseless , misleading and lacking in evidence.

The APC maintained that the accusation is primarily aimed at discrediting the judiciary.

The APC in a statement issued by its spokesperson Auwalu Soja Gwale specifically distanced Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf and his administration from any involvement in the court action between the NNPP factions .

This is as the party strongly rejected claims by the NNPP that the Kano state Government paid several millions of Naira to secure the FCT High Court judgment.

The party expressed serious concern that such wild claim ,has become a consistent,but disturbing pattern of what it described as “reckless rhetorics and mischief by some individuals within the NNPP in Kano.

While urging the Kwankwasiyya faction of the NNPP to concentrate on resolving its internal disputes, the APC warned that it will be left with no other option than to seek a legal redress if within three days the NNPP fails to apologise.

NGIJ Urges Unity, Cautions Politicians Against Divisive Rhetoric Ahead 2027 Election

Akinwale Kasali

March 20, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalism, NGIJ, has called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and warned political actors against exploiting religious and ethnic divisions as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.

The Guild in a statement issued on Friday, March 20th, 2026, to mark the 2026 Eid el-Fitr celebration, and jointly signed by its National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, congratulated Muslim faithfuls on the successful completion of Ramadan.

The Guild noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, describing the alignment as a “rare and powerful symbolism” that underscores shared values across faiths.

According to the statement, both periods called for reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, stressing that such common ideals should serve as a foundation for national unity.

“For weeks, across mosques and churches, Nigerians prayed, fasted, gave to the needy, and sought a better version of themselves. If we can endure hardship together in pursuit of spiritual growth, then we can certainly live together in peace,” the Guild said.

However, NGIJ expressed concern over rising tensions in the country, warning that differences are increasingly being weaponised, particularly along religious and ethnic lines.

The Guild emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan and Lent should not end with celebrations but must be reflected in citizens’ daily conduct, urging Nigerians to embrace patience, empathy, and truth in their interactions.

While addressing the political class, the organisation cautioned against early signs of divisive campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, including the spread of misinformation and fear-based rhetoric.

“We are already seeing early signs of the familiar playbook, divisive rhetoric, calculated misinformation, and appeals to fear rather than reason. That path is dangerous and ultimately destructive,” the statement read.

NGIJ urged politicians, political parties, and aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns, particularly on the economy, security, and governance, rather than resorting to identity politics.

It warned that power gained through division could undermine national stability, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle that deepens societal fractures.

The Guild also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and responsible journalism, pledging to continue challenging false narratives and exposing misinformation.

“A peaceful and informed society requires citizens who think critically and reject manipulation,” it added.

The statement concluded by describing Eid al-Fitr as not only a moment of celebration but also a test of collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to choose unity over division in the interest of national progress.

Cult Leader Murdered Days To Wedding, As Colleagues Seek Revenge

Akinwale Kasali

March 20, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

Fear, Panic and unrest has continue to rock Ojo residents in Lagos following wave of cult-related violence, that has left two popular cultist dead.

This has however raised tensions, as rival groups are preparing to avenge the death of their former leader.

It was gathered that the former number One Man of Aiye Confraternity, identified as Prosper, also known as Azuka, was Murdered in cold blood at Alaba International in Ojo, close to St. Patrick Church.

According to eyewitness report, Prosper had boarded a Motorcycle, and had the premonition that his attackers were after him, so he urged the Motorcyclist to speed up before he could be caught by his assailants.

His attackers were said to have shot at him, but he managed to dodge the first shots, but a truck driver was hit by stray bullets, and he died instantly.

The attackers were said have ran after him, and Murdered him in cold blood having caught up with him.

The deceased Prosper was said to be a phone dealer in the area and a well-known figure.

His death came as rude shock to Friends and associates, who are yet to come to terms with his sudden demise.

It was gathered that the late Prosper was preparing for his Birthday Party coming up on Monday, 23rd March 2026.

Sources also disclosed that his Traditional Marriage had been planned for next month, making his friends, Colleagues, Sympathizers and associates to be in a tearful and melancholy mood.

There is however pandemonium in the area, as the rival cult group that carried the operation remains a mystery yet to be unraveled.

Though, residents who claim anonymity are of the opinion that the cold war that has existed between the Eiye and Aye Confraternity could have led to him been Murdered.

Interestingly, a rival Cult Group, the Vikings Confraternity had reportedly claimed they carried out the attack on Prosper.

Responding to the statement of the Vikings Confraternity on claiming to have been responsible for the killing of Prosper, Aye Confraternity has promised to retaliate as they aeek revenge for the killing of their former Number One.

This development has led to pandemonium in the area, as residents now live in fear and panic, as they don’t know when the Cult Related crisis will happen.

It was gathered that the same night Prosper was killed, the situation escalated, as the Aye Group launched a revenge attack in the Satellite Town area of Ojo.

Sources within the area alleged that the Target Man of the Group was a certain man known as Hefty.

Hefty was described as a former number one for the Eiye confraternity and one of the most feared cultists in the Satellite Town area.

He was said to have been tracked to Esie Street in Ijegun Egba, within the Ojo axis, where his attackers

shot at him but the bullet did not penetrate.

They then turned to other weapons, using stones, axes, and other objects to kill him.

Hefty was known in the area as a very dangerous cultist, someone whom even other dangerous cultists avoided crossing.

He was said to have had a long history of criminal activity and had been a major target for the Aye group for a long time.

The Aye Group it was gathered also attacked two more people that same night in the Ojo area.

Sources in the area alleged that the Aye Confraternity is claiming that these two victims are members of the Vikings confraternity.

This has left the community in fear and panic, with no respite in sight, with the Cult Groups ready to unleash mayhem.

The Police are yet to issue a statement on this development.

Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer proved abortive as at the time of filing in this report, as his phone line wasn’t going through.

Panic In Borno Over Another Possible Attack By Suicide Bombers

Ayodele Oni

March 20, 2026

Professor Babagana Zulum, Borno State governor

By Ayodele Oni

As Muslims celebrate end of Ramadan, palpable fear has gripped people of Borno State following revelation that suicide bombers are planning another attack on the state capital.

The State Government has, therefore, called on residents to stay alert during Friday’s Eid prayers in Maiduguri, following intelligence reports suggesting that two suspected suicide bombers may be planning attacks.

Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Damaturu, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum disclosed the warning, stating: “We have intelligence that there are two suicide bombers lurking around to carry out attacks, and we are calling on all our people to remain vigilant.”

The governor further stated that although Boko Haram insurgents are currently facing sustained military pressure, they may attempt to stage attacks on Maiduguri as a diversion.

He, however, expressed confidence that such efforts would not succeed.

Governor Zulum just arrived from Saudi Arabia where he had gone to perform the lesser hajj, promoting his absence during Monday’s suicide attacks at three locations in Maiduguri, including the gate of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, a city roundabout, and the Post Office.

The incidents reportedly claimed over 20 lives and left more than 100 others injured.

Earlier on Friday, Governor Zulum visited victims of the bomb blasts in Maiduguri following his return from the lesser Hajj.

During the visit, he praised the Federal Government for its prompt actions, including releasing funds for clearance operations around the fringes of Lake Chad and other affected areas.

He also acknowledged the directive ordering Service Chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to reinforce ongoing security efforts.

The governor reassured residents of continued government support for victims and the families of those who lost their lives.

He further reiterated the commitment of security agencies to ending insurgency in the state and across the North-East region.

While in Saudi Arabia, Governor Zulum had earlier issued a statement through his spokesperson condemning the attack as cowardly and barbaric.

Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto has challenged the military to adopt a more aggressive approach against terrorists following recent bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Sultan made the call while declaring Friday’s Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

Abubakar condemned the attacks and urged the military and intelligence agencies to intensify efforts in tackling terrorism.

“Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Don’t wait for them to strike before defending or finding remedies.

“This you must do so that, as a nation of great people, we can have peace in our country.

“We condemn this new wave of bomb attacks in the strongest terms of condemnation and charge that the military and other security and intelligence agencies should step up their effort by nipping these terrorism and insurgency problems in the bud.”

2027: Opposition Parties Lack Coordination – Ndume

Ayodele Oni

March 20, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Senator representing Borno South in the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, has observed that presidential aspirants of the African Democratic Congress, (ADC), like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi have not presented any new strategy that can make any of them defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

Ndume made the remark while expressing confidence that the All Progressives Congress, (APC), will stay in power after the 2027 election.

He spoke during his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday.

According to Ndume: “I am not worried because no one is coming up with anything new.

“Everybody is talking about it; it’s either Bola Ahmed Tinubu or Atiku or Amaechi or Peter Obi. I don’t see anything that they have presented.”

He, also, mentioned that even though Tinubu is still in charge, the opposition groups, especially within the ADC, seem to be divided.

“The man who is now driving is Tinubu, but those trying to take control, and the ADC itself, are always present here and there every day.

“At first, I had a lot of confidence, but when you see people focusing on gaining power for themselves, it’s not a big deal,” he said.

Ndume also noted that while the opposition has some prominent figures, it has faced challenges in maintaining unity and coordination.

“So far, even though they have strong personalities, they haven’t been able to get their house in order. You can’t look down on any opponent, no matter how insignificant they seem.

“Remember, that’s how PDP thought about APC at first, that APC wasn’t serious. Buhari attempted several times but didn’t succeed. So, I’m not writing off Obi or Amaechi,” he said.

Momodu, Fani- Kayode In War Of Words

Ayodele Oni

March 19, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Political differences have turned two former friends to arch enemies as Dele Momodu and Femi Fani- Kayode engage themselves in war of words.

Momodu, a former Presidential Aspirant, is a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and follower of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, while Fani- Kayode is one of the newly appointed ambassadors by President Bola Tinubu.

Both had previously engaged in projecting the image of their leaders through various social medai posts as the 2027 general elections draw nearer.

Atiku is itching to clinch the Presidential ticket of ADC while Tinubu seeks the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for a second term.

Momodu and Fani- Kayode have however deviated from promoting their leaders as they engage in personal attacks.

In his recent post, Momodu described Fani- Kayode as “querulous, garrulous and cantankerous son,” with the later responding that Momodu comes from a

“Lineage of touts and pimps.”

Momodu’s statement titled

FEMI FANI-KAYODE: WHEN WILL YOU STOP BEING A THUG? wrote: “I knew Chief Babaremilekun Adetokunbo Fani-Kayode, Q.C, SAN, of blessed memory, the father of David Oluwafemi Adewunmi Abdulateef Fani-Kayode aka FFK, in Ile-Ife, long before I met his querulous, garrulous and cantankerous son.

“Femi is a classic case of a wasted investment. He attended some of the best schools pedigree and/or money could purchase, but turned out an outright and incurable thug. He went to Cambridge University, probably a 4th generation in his family, but became an enfant terrible, fighting anyone and anything, including esoteric spirits, in sight.

“All supplication and intercession by friends and family on his behalf have failed to cure his strange malady. And this is the man President Bola Tinubu is about to unleash on Germany as an Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for God’s sake.

“For Femi, it is a fulfillment of a long expected appointment. We discussed it several times. And I encouraged him to be patient and prayerful. I felt his deep frustration and depression. He was already working on Plan B, and begging a few of us to help him reach out to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (GCON), if all hopes evaporate.

“Femi without power is like fish out of water. It is such a pity that now that Tinubu has finally looked at his side, with mercy and compassion, he is still busy fighting, like a pig, instead of seeking urgent rehabilitation into the comity of sane human beings.”

In his response, Fani- Kayode stated :”THE PIMP CALLED DELE MOMODU HAS BLOWN ANOTHER GASKET:

“Dele Momodu has got his knickers in a twist yet again. Poor soul. He is clearly tormented. There is nothing worse than watching a man that comes from a lineage of touts and pimps blowing his gasket.

“He calls me a thug, speaks about my father and family and claims that I wanted to work with Atiku even though I left PDP in 2021. Say what you want about me DELE but it really doesn’t matter. My father never knew you even though you claimed he did and no-one ever knew your father.

“That is how inconsequential you and yours are to Nigeria’s history. No matter what you say about me I was born into the corridors of power. I have been in power and I have remained relevant and active in the power configuration of our country for over 30 years which is more than I can say for you. So it stops there.

“All I know about you is that you were once a journalist, you followed Chief MKO Abiola around like a court jester and collected crumbs from him. For much of your life, you became a hustler and a photographer after he was incarcerated, and that you ran for President a number of years back and got only one vote which came from your wife.

“I will not bother to go into your family history because there is nothing in it to talk about which is why you have such a terrible inferiority complex and a chip on your shoulder. Yet all that is irrelevant.

“The only thing that is important is that the man you are accusing of being a dictator and an Abacha is presently in Windsor now having dinner with the King whilst you are still in Nigeria kissing Atiku’s posterior.

“I am sure if your defunct Ovation magazine had been invited to cover the event you would have been happier and less bitter and frustrated.

“Outside of that, whether you like it or not President Tinubu WILL return to office and be re-elected in 2027. Nothing you say or do about me or him can change that and this is the source of your pain.

“Insult me as much as you like: it is like duck off a waters back to me. The only thing that matters is Nigeria and that creatures like you and those you represent do not ever get near power.You called me a pig, yet look at yourself in the mirror and tell me who looks more like a pig between you and I.

“Your profound ugliness, fat stomach and lack of good breeding is your greatest torment. Let us hope it does not bring you to an unexpected end. You were nothing, you are nothing and you will never be anything but Atiku’s side kick.

“I urge you to calm down and live with this unsavoury fact. I pray it doesn’t cause you to have a heart attack and drop dead. Outside of this I do not have your time. I have been called to serve my country once again and that is where my focus lies. All the best.”

Emir Bayero Kicks As Kano Govt Approves Modified Sallah Dubar For Rival, Emir Sanusi

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 19, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The factional 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has questioned the motives behind the last minute approval granted to his rival, the reinstated 16th factional Emir, Mohammad Sanusi II to hold a structured and limited Sallah Dubar in the State.

The source reports that the two factional Emirs who have been battling for the control of the Emirate stool since 2024 had been restrained by security agencies from holding parallel Sallah Dubar festivities in the state for the past three years over fears of possible breach of peace and stability.

Only on Tuesday March 17, 2026, the Kano State Government had reaffirmed the effectiveness of the ban on all Sallah Dubar activities in the State, pending when the litany of legal proceedings filed by both contending Emirs will be settled by the country’s judiciary.

In a statement then issued by the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs Ibrahim Waiya, the Kano state authorities also reaffirmed their resolve not to side with any of the parties.

The Commissioner, who was reacting to media reports suggesting that the reinstated 16th Emir Sanusi had been granted permission to conduct the Sallah Dubar ahead of Emir Bayero, insisted that no such decision had been taken.

The Commissioner’s statement also came amidst tension sparked by a notice served by Bayero on the police, signaling his intention to conduct the Sallah Dubar festivities.

In a letter addressed to the Kano State Police Command dated March 7, 2026, signed by Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru his Private Secretary, Bayero informed of his readiness to observe the traditional Sallah Dubar immediately after the Ramadan.

However, following the March 17, official position insisting that neither of the two Emirs should conduct the Sallah Dubar in the over all interest of the peace of the State, Bayero was said to have cancelled his earlier plan for the event l.

However, at a media briefing on Thursday, March 19, 2026 in Kano, Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi ,(Sarkin Dawaki Maituta ) expressed Emir Bayero’s huge disappointment with the Kano State Government’s U-turn .

According to him, the Kano state Government’s surprise reversal of position came just as Emir Bayero complied with an earlier Government directive leading to his cancellation of preparations for the Sallah Dubar festivities.

Dan’Agundi, one of the Emirate’s kingmakers noted that the 15th Emir cancelled the planned Sallah Dubar even when preparations had reached an advanced stage in the overall interest of the peace and stability of Kano State.

While commending the State authorities for their proactive measures towards ensuring peace and stability, Dan’Agundi, however, expressed serious concern over the tacit approval granted Sanusi to hold a modified version of Sallah Dubar.

According to the Kano Emirate Kingmaker, granting such an approval to Sanusi, apart from smacking of partiality on the part of the State Government, is tantamount to pre-emptying the cases in court.

It would be recalled that the State Commissioner for Information, Waiya had in a statement issued on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 informed that Sanusi will be leading a partial 2026 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah Dubar activities.

According to Waiya, the decision to allow for only a partial Sallah Dubar festivities, was sequel to the receipt of credible intelligence warning of attempts by some individuals to disrupt the peace of the State.

The Commissioner emphasized the Kano state Government’s unwavering commitment towards preserving Kano’s cultural heritage, without undermining peace and security.

Army Repels Night Attack In Borno, Confirms Killing Of Top Bandit Commanders

Ayodele Oni

March 19, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian Army has repelled a coordinated night attack by insurgents in Mallam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State, which led to killing of some notorious leaders of Boko Hara/ISWAP.

This is coming days after some military settlements in the north east were attacked by suspected bandits, leading to the killing of military personnel.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, saw terrorists suspected to be members of Boko Haram/ISWAP advancing from the Duguri general area on foot, supported by multiple armed drones, in a bid to breach the 68 Battalion Main Defensive Area.

However, their movement was swiftly detected by vigilant troops who responded with overwhelming firepower.

In a well-coordinated operation, troops in synergy with supporting air components engaged the attackers decisively, neutralizing over 60 terrorist fighters, including some notorious commanders.

The intense firefight forced the remaining insurgents into a disorganized retreat towards the Arege general area.

Troops have since commenced exploitation operations to pursue and eliminate the fleeing terrorists, while Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms are being deployed to dominate the withdrawal routes and prevent regrouping.

The Nigerian Army remains resolute and committed to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist elements, while reassuring law-abiding citizens of its dedication to safeguarding lives and property across the country.

Three Suspects Arrested As Combined Security Team Frees Two Of Four Farmers Abducted In Oyo

Ayodele Oni

March 19, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of two of the four persons abducted at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Ibadan, Oyo State.

The incident, which happened on Wednesday, has led to the arrest of three suspects.

According to the Oyo State Police Command, upon receiving the report, the commissioner of police, Femi Haruna directed the Divisional Police Officer, (DPO) of Idi-Ayunre, in collaboration with other security agencies and non-state actors to conduct an intensive bush search, which led to the rescue of two of the victims.

“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a kidnapping incident reported today, 19th March 2026, at about 1223 hours, at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Idi-Ayunre.

“Information available to the Command indicates that representatives of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, who were at the CRIN nursery site to submit their annual collections of cocoa seedlings for the 2026 planting season, were abducted by unidentified armed men.

“Upon receipt of the distress report, a combined security team comprising the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups, and Amotekun Corps swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the assailants in a coordinated pursuit.

“This prompt and decisive response led to the successful rescue of two male victims. In the course of the operation, three suspects were arrested and are currently in police custody.

“Intensive efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victim(s), as security operatives have commenced aggressive bush combing operations and sustained pursuit of the fleeing criminals.

“The Command assures the public that it remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across the State.

“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations.”

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