Fresh videos released by the abducted teachers, pupils, and principal from Oriire in Ogbomoso vilages have once again exposed the frightening reality of their captivity and the deep dilemma confronting the government and security agencies.
In the heartbreaking footage, the victims passionately appealed to both the Federal and State Governments to avoid any forceful rescue operation, warning that such actions could provoke deadly retaliation from the bandits. Their voices were filled with fear, desperation, and uncertainty as they pleaded for their lives to be spared.
Their location strongly believed to have to been known and surrounded but the collateral damages will be inevitable.
One of the women in the video cried emotionally in Yoruba, “Ẹ ma bawọn já,” meaning “Please don’t engage them in battle.” Her statement reflected the terrifying threats allegedly being issued by the kidnappers that any attempt by security operatives to storm their hideout would lead to the execution of more innocent captives, already Mr M. Oyedokun was slainned few days ago.
The school principal, Mrs Alamu, who also appeared in the video, stated clearly that continued forceful rescue attempts were only worsening the danger facing the victims as the bandits are becoming more violent and impatient. According to her, the kidnappers had already marked another victim to be killed if military forceful rescue pressure persisted. She warned that a gun battle between security operatives and the bandits yesterday resulted in more trouble for them as the victims and more innocent lives maybe lost, particularly the children who remain trapped in the forest.
This development has sparked intense reactions and difficult conversations among Nigerians. Many believe that security agencies already know the location of the kidnappers, trapped the forest but are unable to launch a direct assault because of the high possibility of collateral damage. Unlike technologically advanced nations that may deploy sophisticated intelligence systems and precision rescue strategies, Nigeria’s security realities remain far more complicated and fragile.
Fresh revelations have emerged in the ongoing investigation into a series of kidnappings in Ogun State following the discovery of a bag allegedly used for ransom collection in the kitchen of the arrested Seriki Fulani of Ijebu Ode, 67-year-old Abdullahi Muhammadu.
Muhammadu, a prominent leader of the Fulani community in the area, was recently arrested alongside his eldest son by operatives of the Ogun State Police Command over alleged involvement in kidnapping activities that have terrorized several communities across the Ijebu axis.
According to police sources, investigations led officers to the residence of the community leader, where a bag reportedly identified as one used in the delivery of ransom payments was recovered during a search operation.
Despite the discovery, Muhammadu has maintained his innocence, insisting that he had no direct involvement in any kidnapping operation.
Speaking during interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted that he was aware of his son’s past involvement in criminal activities but claimed he believed the young man had abandoned such acts.
“I knew my son was a kidnapper before, but I thought he had stopped. I never joined him in any operation and I am not part of any kidnapping gang,” he was quoted as saying.
Police investigators, however, are continuing efforts to establish the extent of his involvement and determine whether the recovery of the ransom bag links him directly to the crimes under investigation.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of abduction and insecurity in parts of Ogun State, particularly within rural communities where residents have repeatedly called for stronger security measures.
Security agencies have assured residents that investigations are ongoing and that anyone found culpable, regardless of social status or community position, will face the full weight of the law.
Authorities have also urged members of the public to provide credible information that could aid the ongoing crackdown on kidnapping syndicates operating within the state.
The Ogun State Police Command is expected to provide further updates as investigations progress and more suspects are identified.
The Concern Nigerian Youths for Good Governance (CNYGG) has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful completion of three years in office, applauding his administration’s infrastructural development efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
In a press statement signed by its Convener, Ambassador Mahmud Abubakar, the group described President Tinubu’s leadership as bold, visionary and committed to national transformation, particularly in the area of road infrastructure and economic development.
CNYGG specifically commended the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for what it termed “exceptional leadership and dedication” in repositioning Nigeria’s road infrastructure sector since assuming office.
According to the statement, the Ministry of Works has recorded remarkable progress through aggressive infrastructural policies and the execution of key legacy projects aimed at boosting transportation, commerce and national connectivity.
Among the projects highlighted by the group are the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway Project, the Trans-Saharan Trade Route Corridor initiatives and other strategic economic corridor roads across the country.
The organization noted that the projects are expected to modernize Nigeria’s infrastructure architecture, create employment opportunities, stimulate investments and improve socio-economic activities nationwide.
CNYGG further praised the Ministry for introducing improved monitoring systems, enhanced project supervision and stronger quality assurance mechanisms, which it said have restored public confidence in the nation’s infrastructure sector.
The group also recognized the efforts of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in maintaining and rehabilitating federal roads across the country.
It stated that FERMA has recorded notable achievements in emergency road interventions, rehabilitation of failed highway sections, pothole repairs, drainage maintenance and rapid response to road challenges affecting motorists and commuters.
According to the statement, the agency’s interventions on major federal roads have improved transportation, enhanced road safety and eased economic activities for millions of Nigerians.
While commending the management and staff of FERMA for their resilience and professionalism, CNYGG urged the Federal Government to sustain the current momentum by increasing investments in durable road infrastructure and ensuring timely completion of ongoing projects.
The group also called on Nigerian youths and citizens to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence that the Tinubu administration would deliver greater national transformation and sustainable development in the years ahead.
Hon. Wale Ajani has emerged as the Accord Party candidate for the Oyo Central Senatorial District following the conclusion of the party’s primary election held on Thursday.
The primary process, which was conducted in line with the party’s guidelines and democratic procedures, was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, as well as the Accord State Chairman, Prince Kolade Ojo, the State Secretary, Hon. Yinka Dairo, and other state officials of the party.
The result of the primary election across the state was collated at Zotan Hall, Jericho, Ibadan, where Ajani was formally declared the party’s candidate for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat.
Ajani’s emergence is regarded as a significant development for the Accord Party as it intensifies preparations for the forthcoming senatorial election in Oyo Central.
In his remarks after the declaration, Ajani expressed appreciation to party leaders, delegates, and supporters for the confidence reposed in him, describing the outcome of the process as a reflection of the party’s unity and shared commitment to its political objectives.
He also called on members of the party to remain united and work collectively toward ensuring victory at the general election.
Ajani pledged to offer purposeful leadership and quality representation, while reaffirming his commitment to promoting the interests and aspirations of the people of Oyo Central Senatorial District.
The ancient town of Iseyin witnessed a colourful political carnival and Ileya celebration as loyalists and supporters of the Iseyin/Itesiwaju Hon. Dele Adeola Support Group staged a massive solidarity rally in support of candidates contesting under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The event, organised amidst pomp and celebration of the Ileya festival, attracted a mammoth crowd of party faithful, youths, women and community leaders who openly declared their loyalty and support for the APM and its candidates ahead of the forthcoming elections.
Speaking through the convener of the forum and lawmaker representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Dele Adeola, the group rallied support for Engr. Seyi Makinde as presidential flagbearer, Hon. Shina Peller for Oyo North Senatorial District, Hon. Shina Oyedeji for the House of Representatives seat representing Iseyin/Kajola/Iwajowa/Itesiwaju Federal Constituency, and Surv. Dasola Adefabi for the Oyo State House of Assembly seat representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju Constituency.
Hon. Adeola used the occasion to shower encomiums on the political moves, strategies and leadership style of Engr. Seyi Makinde, describing him as a visionary leader with the capacity to reset Nigeria and reposition the country for sustainable growth and development.
According to him, the forum strongly believes in Makinde’s vision for national rebirth, expressing optimism that an APM-led administration would bring total transformation to the economy, education sector and, most importantly, security architecture of the nation.
“The vision of Engr. Seyi Makinde to reset Nigeria gives hope to millions of Nigerians. We believe there will be total revamp in the economy, education and especially security if given the opportunity to lead the country,” Adeola stated.
He further reiterated that the APM remains the best alternative political platform capable of delivering good governance and responsive leadership to Nigerians.
The lawmaker disclosed that the forum has already commenced aggressive grassroots mobilisation across communities to ensure overwhelming electoral victory for all APM candidates, including Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi as Governor of Oyo State.
Adeola also reaffirmed the forum’s unwavering support for Hon. Shina Peller, Hon. Shina Oyedeji and Hon. Dasola Adefabi, assuring that the group would work tirelessly for their resounding success at the polls.
The rally featured music, dancing and enthusiastic chants by supporters who described the gathering as a demonstration of the growing popularity and acceptance of the APM across Oyo State, particularly in Oke-Ogun zone.
The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, came alive on Friday as thousands of indigenes, tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and dignitaries gathered for the colourful 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration that once again showcased the richness of Yoruba heritage, fashion, and creativity.
This year’s edition of the globally celebrated cultural festival was filled with glamour, horse-riding displays, music, and breathtaking fashion moments, but two standout attractions dominated conversations both on the festival grounds and across social media.
Among the major highlights was the dramatic appearance of renowned capital market executive, Farooq Oreagba, popularly referred to online as the “King of Steeze,” who made a grand entrance on horseback in his signature stylish manner.
Oreagba, whose commanding presence and fashion sense captured public attention during previous editions of the festival, once again became one of the most talked-about personalities at the event as photos and videos of his appearance rapidly circulated online.
Social media users praised his elegance, confidence, and cultural pride, with many describing his appearance as one of the defining moments of Ojude Oba 2026.
Adding another layer of excitement and creativity to the festival was the appearance of a striking duo who turned heads with an unconventional but highly artistic fashion statement.
The pair appeared at the festival in tailored traditional outfits creatively crafted from recycled cement bags, blending sustainability with cultural fashion in a way that immediately drew admiration from spectators.
Their unique ensemble featured carefully designed traditional wear complete with a structured Gele, matching handcrafted bags, and bold coral bead accessories, proving that innovation and environmental consciousness can coexist with African cultural expression.
In a festival widely known for luxurious Aso Oke, premium fabrics, and regal appearances, the daring recycled fashion concept stood out as a symbol of Nigerian ingenuity and evolving creative culture.
Festival attendees described the outfit as one of the boldest and most memorable fashion statements of this year’s celebration, with many applauding the designers for promoting sustainability through art and tradition.
Ojude Oba, an annual cultural festival held in honour of the Awujale of Ijebuland, continues to attract global attention for its vibrant display of Yoruba culture, horse-riding regiments, fashion excellence, and intergenerational pride.
As celebrations continue, the 2026 edition has once again reaffirmed Ojude Oba’s status as one of Nigeria’s biggest and most visually captivating cultural festivals.
Tension heightened in Oyo State on Friday as members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State chapter, staged a peaceful protest in Ibadan over the continued abduction of students and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area.
The protesting teachers took to major roads around Iwo Road, chanting solidarity songs and demanding urgent intervention from security agencies and government authorities to rescue the victims.
Carrying placards bearing inscriptions such as “Bring Back Our Children,” “Education Must Be Safe,” and “Stop Attacks on Schools,” the demonstrators expressed frustration over what they described as the prolonged silence surrounding the incident.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when heavily armed gunmen reportedly stormed schools in the Esiele community of Oriire Local Government Area and whisked away more than 40 students and teachers during the attack.
Since the incident, fear and uncertainty have gripped residents, parents, and education stakeholders across the state, with concerns growing over the safety of schools in rural communities.
Reports circulating online also revealed disturbing videos allegedly released by the kidnappers, showing the victims in harsh conditions inside a forest camp. The footage has further intensified public outrage and pressure on authorities to act swiftly.
Speaking during the protest, some union leaders lamented the increasing insecurity facing teachers and students, warning that the situation could discourage learning and threaten educational activities in affected areas.
The union called on the Oyo State Government, security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to intensify rescue operations and ensure the immediate and safe return of all abducted victims.
The protesters maintained that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and not targets for criminal attacks.
The Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU National), the apex body representing Oyo State students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, has congratulated Chief Joseph Olasunkanmni Tegbe on his confirmation by the Senate as the Honourable Minister of Power of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its National President, Aare Ahmed A. Mufutau, the student body described the appointment as a moment of pride for Oyo State students both at home and in the diaspora, noting that the confirmation reflects Tegbe’s professional excellence, leadership qualities, and longstanding contributions to national development.
FOSSU National highlighted Tegbe’s academic and professional accomplishments, noting that he was born on March 21, 1966, in Oyo Town with ancestral roots in Ibadan’s Jegede Compound, Labo. The union stated that he graduated with a First Class degree in Civil Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 1988 and later attended executive leadership programmes at Lagos Business School, INSEAD France, Harvard Kennedy School, and Harvard Business School.
According to the statement, Tegbe is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (FCIT), and also certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT).
The union further noted that Tegbe built an outstanding professional career at KPMG Nigeria, where he rose to become Senior Partner and Head of Technology Advisory Services and Markets, while also serving as KPMG Africa Lead for Cybersecurity and public sector transformation initiatives.
FOSSU stated that Tegbe’s decades of experience in institutional reforms, technology implementation, governance, and public sector advisory positioned him as a capable leader to address Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges.
The students’ body also praised his public service record, including his role as Chairman of the National Council for Management Development (NCMD), as well as his involvement in educational and civic development through various boards and associations.
Speaking on the significance of the appointment, FOSSU National said the Senate’s confirmation demonstrated confidence in Tegbe’s technical expertise and reform-oriented leadership, especially at a time Nigeria’s power sector faces serious generation, transmission, and distribution challenges.
The union noted that during his screening, Tegbe emphasized the need for grid stabilization, infrastructure modernization, transparency, accountability, improved commercial frameworks, and expansion of mini-grid and solar energy investments under the Electricity Act.
FOSSU National stressed that electricity remains critical to education and innovation, stating that stable power supply directly affects laboratories, ICT centres, innovation hubs, e-learning systems, and campus security across tertiary institutions.
The union pledged constructive engagement with the Ministry of Power to promote campus electrification, renewable energy initiatives, and student-focused opportunities in power engineering and clean energy entrepreneurship.
It also called for stronger collaboration among the Ministry of Power, state governments, tertiary institutions, and the private sector to accelerate mini-grid and rooftop solar projects in universities, polytechnics, and colleges across Oyo State.
FOSSU National commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating Tegbe and praised the Senate for conducting what it described as a thorough confirmation process.
The statement concluded by expressing confidence that Tegbe’s tenure would deliver meaningful reforms capable of transforming Nigeria’s power sector and improving living conditions for citizens nationwide.
The statement was signed by Aare Ahmed A. Mufutau, National President of the Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU National).
The copy of the press statement is reproduced below:
FOSSU National Congratulates Mogaji Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe on Senate Confirmation as Minister of Power
Above subject matter The Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU National) is the apex body uniting Oyo State Students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, warmly congratulates Mogaji Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe on his confirmation by the Senate as the Honourable Minister of Power of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This milestone is a source of immense pride to the entire student constituency of Oyo State at home and in the diaspora, reflecting both Mogaji Tegbe’s personal merit and the enduring tradition of excellence associated with Oyo State.
Who Mogaji Tegbe Is to Oyo State and Nigeria
An accomplished son of Oyo, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe was born on 21 March 1966 in Oyo Town, with Ibadan ancestral roots from Jegede Compound, Labo. He is a national scholar who earned a First Class degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1988, and furthered his leadership training at Lagos Business School, INSEAD (France), Harvard Kennedy School, and Harvard Business School. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (FCIT), and certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT).
Professionally, Mogaji Tegbe rose to become a Senior Partner and Head of Technology Advisory Services and Markets at KPMG Professional Services in Nigeria, serving as KPMG Africa Lead for Cybersecurity, and across Public Sector and TMT practices. For nearly three decades, he has led institutional transformation, sector reforms, strategy, and large-scale technology implementations across Africa, advising the Presidency, state governments, international development partners, and critical industries including oil and gas, manufacturing, telecommunications, and financial services.
His public service record includes chairing the National Council for Management Development (NCMD) and stewarding multiple educational and civic boards, notably the Boards of Trustees of Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) and FGC Ogbomoso OSA—demonstrating a consistent commitment to human capital development, mentorship, and national capacity building.
Why This Appointment Matters The Senate’s confirmation recognizes both technical depth and reform-minded leadership urgently needed in Nigeria’s power sector. During the screening, the Senate underscored the nation’s chronic gap between installed generation capacity and actual supply due to transmission, distribution, and commercial bottlenecks, while Mogaji Tegbe outlined a pragmatic path to visible improvements within months—anchored in diagnostics, transparency, accountability, and collaboration across the Ministry, NERC, TCN, and sector stakeholders. He emphasized stabilizing the grid, modernizing infrastructure, strengthening commercial frameworks, protecting vulnerable households in tariff reform, and unlocking subnational investments in mini-grids and solar under the Electricity Act.
Our Confidence and Expectations
As a first-rate engineer with cross-disciplinary finance, technology, and governance expertise, Mogaji Tegbe brings a rare, solutions-driven profile to a complex national challenge. His track record in strategy execution and systems reform aligns with the urgent need to deliver reliable, affordable power that drives industry, supports education and research, and improves living standards.
For students across Oyo State, power is not an abstract policy area: electricity determines whether laboratories function, whether campuses are safe and digitized, whether innovation hubs, e-learning, and research clusters can thrive. We are encouraged by the Minister’s stated commitments to transparency, grid stability, distributed energy solutions, and subnational collaboration—approaches that can rapidly improve learning environments, reduce the cost of study and enterprise, and catalyze student-led innovation.
Our Pledge and Call to Action
FOSSU National pledges constructive engagement with the Ministry of Power to amplify student perspectives on campus electrification, research power needs, and youth entrepreneurship in clean energy. We encourage coordinated action between the Ministry, state authorities, tertiary institutions, and the private sector to: Accelerate campus mini-grids and rooftop solar for universities, polytechnics, and colleges in Oyo State. Prioritize stable power for laboratories, teaching hospitals, ICT centers, and innovation hubs. Expand student-focused internships, apprenticeships, and graduate pathways in power engineering, project finance, grid operations, and renewable energy entrepreneurship. Ensure tariff reforms protect vulnerable student households while maintaining sector viability.
Commendation FOSSU National salutes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating a tested professional and the Senate for a thorough confirmation process. We extend heartfelt congratulations to Mogaji Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe—an exemplary ambassador of Oyo State—on this well-deserved appointment. The students of Oyo State stand proudly behind you and diligently await the excellence, integrity, and measurable progress you have promised. May your tenure deliver the transformative power sector our nation needs.
Signed, Aare Ahmed A. Mufutau, National President Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU National) 08102128129
Governor Seyi Makinde has renewed his call for the establishment of state police, declaring that the creation of the Amotekun Corps became necessary because the Federal Government failed to approve state policing structures across the country.
Makinde spoke during the governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly primaries of the Allied Peoples Movement held at the Watershed Event Centre, Ibadan, where the party formally presented its consensus governorship candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi.
The governor lamented the worsening security situation in parts of the country, especially following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, insisting that states should be constitutionally empowered to manage their own security architecture.
According to him, Amotekun was only introduced as an alternative because the demand for state police was not granted by the Federal Government.
Makinde said: “Before this administration came on board, there was nothing like Amotekun in Oyo. We wanted state police, but because we did not get it, we created Amotekun as an alternative arrangement.”
He further criticised the Federal Government’s approach to the issue, stating that Nigerians should not continue to wait endlessly for reforms controlled from Abuja. The governor argued that state Houses of Assembly should be empowered to establish and regulate state police structures independently instead of leaving the process solely in the hands of the Inspector-General of Police.
Makinde also assured residents that the “Omituntun” agenda would continue beyond his administration, declaring that “Omituntun 3.0” would deliver even greater development across Oyo State.
While congratulating the APM governorship candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi, the governor advised him to build his own political identity and improve on the achievements of the current administration for the benefit of the people.
The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) has raised concern over the continuous rise in the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), popularly known as cooking gas, blaming the development on persistent supply shortages across the country.
According to the association, the scarcity of LPG supply has triggered another increase in market prices, worsening the economic burden on households and small businesses that depend heavily on cooking gas for daily activities.
NALPGAM disclosed that the supply challenges are being caused by inadequate product availability from local sources, foreign exchange instability, high importation costs, and distribution bottlenecks affecting marketers nationwide.
Industry operators revealed that the price of refilling cooking gas cylinders has risen sharply in recent weeks, with many retail outlets adjusting prices upward due to difficulties in sourcing products. Consumers in several parts of the country have also lamented the sudden increase, saying the development is making cooking gas unaffordable for many families already battling rising food and transportation costs.
The association warned that if urgent intervention is not made by the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies, the situation could deteriorate further, leading to more hardship and forcing many Nigerians to return to the use of firewood and charcoal for cooking.
NALPGAM called on authorities to improve domestic LPG production and supply, stabilize foreign exchange policies affecting importation, and address logistics challenges within the gas distribution chain.
The marketers further stressed the need for policies that would encourage investments in the LPG sector, noting that stable supply remains critical to sustaining Nigeria’s clean energy transition and reducing dependence on unhealthy cooking alternatives.
Stakeholders in the energy sector have repeatedly emphasized that despite Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves, inconsistent supply and infrastructure challenges continue to hinder the accessibility and affordability of LPG for ordinary citizens.
