Oduduwa News

AHORO-ESINLE, OYO STATE — The abducted Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, has appealed to the government to negotiate with her captors, dismissing reports that the abductors demanded a N1 billion ransom or the imposition of Sharia law across Nigeria.

In an emotional message from captivity, Mrs. Alamu said several media reports circulating about the demands of the abductors were inaccurate and had complicated efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.

According to her, the kidnappers are neither demanding huge sums of money nor seeking the introduction of Sharia law, contrary to reports in some sections of the media.

“The terrorists are not asking for Sharia law, they’re not asking for money, they are not asking for N1 billion, they are not asking for cars. All they need is for some of their people to be released. Please help us beg the government to negotiate with them,” she pleaded.

Mrs. Alamu further disclosed that she and other abducted victims had spent 24 days in captivity, describing their ordeal as traumatic and distressing.

“Please, I have come to make some clarification. Today makes it 24 days that we have been in this place. Some press media outlets are complicating the issue by stating that the people who abducted us requested N1 billion ransom and demanded Sharia law across the country. These claims are not true,” she said.

The principal’s appeal has intensified calls for urgent government intervention to secure the safe release of the victims, while raising concerns over the welfare and safety of those still being held captive.

Security agencies and government officials are yet to officially respond to the latest claims

The suspected leader of an Aiye Confraternity cell in Lagos State, Emmanuel Nwokolo, has admitted that his involvement in a series of deadly cult-related attacks left him emotionally disturbed and unable to sleep at night.

Nwokolo, popularly known as “Oblo,” was arrested alongside three other suspected cult members during a police operation in the Ajangbadi area of Ojo Local Government Area. The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Lagos State Police Command following intelligence reports linking them to violent cult activities and multiple killings in Ajangbadi, Shibiri, Ishashi and surrounding communities.

Speaking during interrogation, Nwokolo reportedly confessed to participating in the killing of four members of rival cult groups. He, however, claimed that his gang had been unfairly blamed for a higher number of deaths recorded during the prolonged supremacy battles between rival cult factions in the area.

According to him, the killings took a psychological toll on him, leaving him troubled by recurring thoughts of the victims and struggling to sleep. He reportedly expressed regret over some of the violent acts carried out during the clashes.

Police investigations revealed that a video allegedly showing the killing of unidentified persons was recovered from one of the suspects’ mobile phones. During further searches, operatives recovered two locally fabricated pistols, one revolver pistol and 13 live cartridges believed to have been used in criminal operations.

The Lagos State Police Command said the suspects confessed to being members of the Aiye Confraternity and admitted involvement in a series of violent attacks that terrorised residents of Ojo and neighbouring communities.

Police spokesperson, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in other crimes, identify additional gang members and arrest accomplices still at large. The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating cultism and violent crime across the state, urging residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies.

The Oyo State Government has demolished a three-bedroom bungalow in the Lako Community along Aiyegun–Anaye Road, Ibadan, allegedly used as a hideout by kidnappers involved in the abduction of the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, and her children.

The demolition, carried out on Monday, was led by officials of the Oyo State Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, with support from operatives of the Nigeria Police Force. The operation forms part of the state government’s intensified efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities across Oyo State.

The victims, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were abducted on June 3, 2026, at the Elewura area of Challenge, Ibadan, before being rescued by security operatives.

According to the state government, the demolition sends a strong warning to criminal elements and demonstrates its resolve to dismantle all structures and networks used to facilitate insecurity within the state. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and sustaining the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes.

In a major strategic move to accelerate infrastructural and academic expansion, the Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, paid a high-profile courtesy visit to renowned business mogul and statesman, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim.

The high-level meeting, which took place on Thursday, 4th June 2026, at his Abuja office solidified a massive partnership that will see the direct transformation of the university’s research architecture.

During the visit, Professor Liman expressed the profound gratitude of the University Senate and Management to Dr. Hashim for his extraordinary financial benevolence.

Specifically, the Vice-Chancellor lauded his major donation toward the NSUK Research Complex Building Project, which is officially scheduled to break ground and commence construction in July 2026. She commended his devoted goodwill and relentless commitment to fostering public-private partnerships that advance the growth of higher education in Nigeria.

Recognizing Dr. Hashim’s remarkable accomplishments across diverse global industries, Professor Liman stated that the university is eager to harvest from his wealth of experience.

In this regard, she formally presented the University’s intention to host Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim for a prestigious Public Lecture. The event will provide an intellectual platform for the corporate titan to share deep insights, entrepreneurial strategies, and leadership experiences with the university community, faculty, and students.

Responding to the delegation, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo- Hashim expressed absolute delight at receiving the Vice-Chancellor and her team. He highly commended Professor Liman for her visionary leadership, noting the rapid progress, expanded global visibility, and structural relevance the university has gained since she assumed office.

Dr. Hashim expressed immense enthusiasm for the upcoming July groundbreaking of the Research Complex, reaffirming his total commitment to its successful execution and timely completion.

“I am deeply proud of the progress recorded under the Vice-Chancellor’s watch. This Research Complex is just the beginning. I look forward to deeper, mutually beneficial collaborations that will position NSUK as a premier center of excellence on the continent.” His Excellency, Hon.Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim.

The historic visit concluded with an exchange of institutional ideas and formal photographs to commemorate the strengthening alliance between the university management and the corporate elder statesman.

A commercial motorcyclist in Ore, headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, was reportedly assaulted by an irate mob after a young woman allegedly accused him of attempting to kidnap her.

According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred in a busy area of Ore when the woman suddenly raised an alarm, claiming that the motorcycle rider was trying to abduct her. The accusation immediately attracted the attention of passersby and residents, who descended on the rider before security personnel could intervene.

Sources said the mob subjected the motorcyclist to severe beating, leaving him with varying degrees of injuries. His motorcycle was also reportedly damaged during the attack as the crowd sought to exact instant justice.

However, preliminary findings later suggested that the rider may have been innocent of the allegation. Witnesses familiar with the circumstances claimed that the misunderstanding arose after a disagreement over transportation arrangements, prompting questions about the credibility of the kidnap claim.

The development sparked tension in the area, with some residents condemning the growing trend of mob action based on unverified accusations. They warned that such incidents could lead to the loss of innocent lives and undermine efforts by security agencies to tackle genuine cases of kidnapping and other crimes.

The injured motorcyclist was reportedly rescued and taken for medical attention, while security operatives moved to restore calm and prevent further violence.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not released an official statement on the incident, while investigations were said to be ongoing to establish the facts surrounding the allegation and determine whether any arrests would be made.

Residents have called on members of the public to always report suspected criminal activities to security agencies rather than resorting to jungle justice, stressing that every accused person deserves a fair investigation before any conclusions are reached.

Barely three days after their abduction, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has successfully rescued Mrs. Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons, Paul and Peter.

The victims were rescued alive during a late-evening operation conducted by police operatives at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6.

The successful rescue operation brought relief to family members and well-wishers who had expressed concern over the whereabouts of the victims since their abduction. Details of the operation and the circumstances surrounding the rescue are expected to be made public by the authorities.

The Muslim Community of Oyo State has strongly condemned the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the act as criminal, inhumane, and completely contrary to the teachings of Islam. The group also rejected reported demands by the abductors for the implementation of Sharia law, insisting that terrorists and kidnappers do not represent Islam or the Muslim faithful.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, the community said Islam strictly forbids kidnapping, terrorism, and the extortion of innocent people. According to the group, genuine Islamic principles promote justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life, values that stand in direct opposition to the activities of criminal gangs.

The Muslim body expressed deep concern over the plight of the abducted victims, many of whom are schoolchildren, including toddlers reportedly as young as two years old. It called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all those still being held captive.

The organisation further urged residents across Oyo State to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities to security authorities, and resist attempts by criminals to use religion as a justification for violence and lawlessness. It reaffirmed its support for ongoing efforts by both the Oyo State and Federal Governments to secure the release of the abductees.

As part of efforts to mobilise spiritual support for the victims and their families, the community announced a special prayer session under the leadership of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere. The prayer gathering is aimed at seeking divine intervention for the safe and speedy return of the abducted teachers and pupils.

The condemnation comes amid growing public outrage over the May 15 attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, where dozens of pupils and teachers were kidnapped, triggering protests and calls for stronger security measures across Oyo State.

Residents of Idogun community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State were thrown into panic after suspected bandits invaded the town, destroyed several houses and abducted a nine-year-old boy, the son of a local pastor.

According to sources within the community, the armed assailants stormed the area late at night, firing sporadically and causing residents to flee for safety. During the attack, several buildings were reportedly vandalised, while valuable property belonging to residents was destroyed.

Witnesses said the attackers forcefully took away the young boy from his family’s residence, leaving the community in fear and uncertainty. The abducted child is said to be the son of a respected pastor in the area.

The incident has heightened concerns over the growing insecurity in parts of Ondo State, with residents calling on security agencies and the government to take urgent steps to protect lives and property.

Community leaders condemned the attack and appealed to the abductors to release the child unharmed. They also urged authorities to strengthen security presence in vulnerable rural communities to prevent further attacks.

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said efforts were underway to rescue the victim and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Police authorities assured residents that tactical teams had been deployed to the area and that investigations had commenced.

As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts of the kidnapped boy remained unknown, while security operatives continued search-and-rescue operations in and around the affected community.

Residents have meanwhile appealed for calm and cooperation with security agencies as efforts intensify to secure the safe return of the child and restore peace to the community.

Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Friday signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 aimed at strengthening security, enforcing vehicle registration regulations and improving traffic management across the state, while announcing a statewide ban on commercial motorcycle operations between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

The governor unveiled the new measures during the signing ceremony held at his office on Friday, June 5, stating that the executive order would ensure strict compliance with existing laws governing vehicle registration and road traffic regulations. He noted that unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used in the commission of crimes, making it difficult for security agencies to trace offenders.

According to Makinde, the order provides a legal framework for enforcing vehicle registration requirements and other traffic laws, including sanctions against driving against traffic and related offences. He added that designated enforcement agencies have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found violating the provisions of the order.

The governor explained that offenders apprehended under the executive order would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while seized assets and properties would be handled through established legal procedures.

Linking the new directive to recent security challenges in the state, Makinde referenced the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area over 20 days ago. He said the painful incident had reinforced the need for stronger security measures across Oyo State.

“We are living through very trying times. For over 20 days, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity in the hands of terrorists. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them and their families who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty,” the governor said.

He assured residents that his administration remained committed to securing the safe return of the victims and was working closely with security agencies to achieve that objective.

“As a government, we share in their anxiety and their hope, and we remain committed to doing everything within our power to secure the safe return of every one of them,” he added.

Makinde emphasized that the abducted teachers and pupils had neither been forgotten nor abandoned, stressing that extensive rescue efforts were ongoing behind the scenes. He urged residents not to mistake the government’s silence for inaction, noting that operational details could not be disclosed for security reasons.

A major highlight of the executive order is the restriction on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders. Under the new directive, commercial motorcycles are prohibited from operating anywhere in Oyo State between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily as part of efforts to curb criminal activities and enhance public safety.

The governor called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities, reiterating that security remains a collective responsibility.

“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents to be vigilant.

Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has threatened to expose politicians allegedly sponsoring criminal activities in parts of the country, including the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

Speaking during a recent address, Igboho alleged that some influential politicians were providing financial support, ammunition, and logistical assistance to criminal groups terrorising communities across the country.

According to him, security challenges confronting Nigeria are being fuelled by powerful political actors whose identities he claimed to know. He warned that if the perpetrators failed to desist from their actions, he would publicly reveal their names.

“If I am permitted to burst into their hideouts, they will flee. They are neither gnomes nor mannequins; they are human beings and can be dislodged. I know the politicians behind them, and if they do not stop perpetrating their evil acts, I will mention them all. They are the ones giving them ammunition and money,” he said.

Igboho further alleged that certain political interests were deliberately working to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by creating insecurity and spreading false narratives across the country.

“The same thing they did to Jonathan is what they are doing to Tinubu. They want to make the country ungovernable for him. They are using fake news propaganda to scare the masses and divert supporters away from the President,” he stated.

Referring to the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the activist expressed concern over the incident and claimed he had volunteered to assist in rescue efforts.

He, however, alleged that the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde declined his offer, insisting that he was prepared to support efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.

“Suppose the recent abduction is not a game. In Oyo, they made away with children. I volunteered to go, but the state government said no,” he added.

The comments have generated reactions across political and security circles, with many calling for thorough investigations into the allegations. Neither the Oyo State Government nor the individuals allegedly implicated by Igboho had officially responded to the claims as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, security agencies continue efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers, while residents and stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger measures to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.