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.
Former presidential candidate and global energy entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has pledged to restore the value of the naira to an exchange rate of between N500- N525 to one United States dollar if elected President of Nigeria, as thousands of Accord Party supporters in FCT converged in Dawaki Abuja on Thursday to reaffirm their loyalty and support for his 2027 presidential ambition.
Addressing the mammoth gathering in Abuja on Thursday, Hashim thanked party members and supporters for what he described as their resilience, steadfastness and courage throughout the recent primary processes of the Accord Party.
The former presidential candidate used the occasion to launch a scathing criticism of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to address the country’s worsening economic situation and the hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.
According to him, the economic realities facing citizens continue to deteriorate daily, with rising costs of living, declining purchasing power and growing unemployment deepening the suffering of ordinary families across the country.
Hashim alleged that those currently in power were more preoccupied with retaining political control than addressing the pressing needs of the people. He further claimed that elements within the government had become involved in the internal affairs of opposition parties, including the ADC, PDP and Accord Party, in a bid to weaken alternative political platforms ahead of future elections.
He warned that attempts to restrict democratic participation and undermine political competition could have serious consequences, arguing that history had repeatedly shown that leaders who sought to cling desperately to power often faced public rejection and divine judgment in Nigeria.
Drawing historical parallels, Hashim referenced the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, stating that no individual could permanently suppress the will of the people or obstruct the course of democracy.
The Accord Party chieftain also expressed disappointment with sections of the party leadership over their recent position regarding his presidential aspiration, maintaining that the timing and content of their public statements had raised questions about the integrity and transparency of the process.
He insisted that his political involvement was driven not by personal ambition but by a commitment to improving the welfare and living conditions of Nigerians, which he said had significantly worsened under the current administration.
Hashim lamented the growing difficulties faced by parents in meeting basic responsibilities, particularly the payment of school fees, noting that many families were being forced to make painful sacrifices to keep their children in school.
Reflecting on his formative years, he recalled a period when quality education was more accessible and affordable, stressing that today’s economic realities had placed education beyond the reach of many low-income households.
He said a responsible government must prioritise economic growth, job creation and educational opportunities for young people, arguing that these were essential ingredients for national development and social stability.
The former presidential candidate urged his supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding and actively engaged in the democratic process, despite the challenges confronting the opposition and the nation at large.
He expressed confidence that justice would ultimately prevail, adding that leaders who manipulate institutions and abuse power would eventually be held accountable by history and by God.
Hashim concluded by thanking the enthusiastic crowd for what he described as their unwavering love, loyalty and support, assuring them that their sacrifices and commitment to the cause of national renewal would not be in vain.
The recent abduction of innocent school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State remains a source of deep pain, anxiety, and concern to all well-meaning citizens. The thoughts and prayers of the public continue to be with the victims and their families as they endure this difficult and traumatic period.
I commend the efforts of the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government for visiting the affected community and reassuring the families that every possible step is being taken to secure the safe release of those still in captivity. Such visits offer hope and demonstrate that the plight of the victims has not been forgotten.
However, I am constrained to express serious concern regarding the public disclosure of the alleged demands and conditions reportedly issued by the kidnappers. While transparency in governance is important, matters involving ongoing hostage situations require the utmost discretion, caution, and strategic handling.
Publicising the demands of kidnappers may unintentionally complicate delicate rescue efforts, strengthen the bargaining position of criminal elements, create unnecessary panic among affected families, and potentially place the lives of the captives at greater risk. Security operations of this nature are often sensitive and require confidentiality to maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
At this critical time, the overriding objective should be the safe and unconditional release of every child and teacher still being held against their will. Every public statement, action, and strategy should be measured against this singular goal.
I therefore respectfully urge both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government to exercise greater restraint in the dissemination of sensitive information relating to the ongoing negotiations or security operations. The focus should remain on securing the freedom of the victims while denying the perpetrators any publicity, leverage, or advantage that could arise from public discussion of their demands.
The people of Oyo State, and indeed all Nigerians, expect the authorities to deploy every lawful resource available to ensure that these innocent citizens return safely to their families. Nothing should be allowed to hinder or jeopardise that objective.
May the captives regain their freedom soon, and may our nation continue to strengthen its resolve against kidnapping, banditry, and all forms of criminality.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State, the issue of who emerges as the Chairman of Ido Local Government has become a subject of growing public interest among residents, stakeholders, and political leaders across the council area.
For many people in Ido Local Government, the chairmanship position is more than a political office; it is a symbol of local representation, identity, and the collective aspirations of the indigenous communities that have contributed immensely to the development and growth of the council over the years. It is therefore understandable that there is a strong expectation that the next chairman should emerge from among the indigenes of Ido Local Government.
The argument for an indigene chairman is not rooted in discrimination or exclusion, but in the desire to preserve local participation and ensure that those who fully understand the history, challenges, culture, and developmental needs of the various communities within Ido are given the opportunity to lead. Local government administration is closest to the people, and effective leadership often requires a deep connection with the communities being served.
Many residents still recall previous political decisions that generated concerns regarding representation. In particular, the emergence of a non-indigene for a major elective position within the area was viewed by many as a departure from the expectations of the people. As political parties prepare for another electoral cycle, there is a widespread belief that such a situation should not be repeated with the chairmanship seat of Ido Local Government.
This appeal is therefore directed to Governor Seyi Makinde, political parties, traditional leaders, community associations, and all relevant stakeholders to carefully consider the sentiments of the people during the selection and nomination process. Respecting the aspirations of the indigenous population will strengthen public confidence in the democratic process and promote unity across the local government.
Furthermore, giving an indigene the opportunity to occupy the chairmanship position will help reinforce the principle of grassroots representation, encourage greater community ownership of governance, and deepen the bond between the government and the people. Such a decision would be widely welcomed by residents who believe that local leadership should reflect the identity and aspirations of the local population.
As the election approaches, stakeholders must prioritize fairness, consultation, and the collective interest of the people of Ido Local Government. The voices of the indigenous communities deserve to be heard, respected, and reflected in the eventual choice of who leads the council.
Ultimately, the peace, unity, and political stability of Ido Local Government depend on decisions that inspire confidence among the people. The overwhelming expectation across many communities is that the next chairman should be an indigene who understands the local terrain, shares the people’s aspirations, and is committed to advancing the development of Ido Local Government.
Bolarinwa Adeolu, a concerned indigene of Ido Local Government
The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, alongside the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other critical security stakeholders, has launched a coordinated security initiative aimed at safeguarding schools and communities across the state amid rising concerns over insecurity in parts of the country.
The move followed an emergency security meeting convened by the state government, where traditional rulers, security agencies, local vigilante groups, hunters, and members of the Osun Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, resolved to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering around educational institutions and vulnerable communities.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that the safety of schoolchildren remains a top priority. He disclosed that additional security personnel would be deployed to strategic locations, particularly around schools, while community-based security structures would be strengthened to detect and prevent criminal activities.
The Ooni of Ife commended the state government for taking proactive steps to address security concerns, urging traditional rulers and community leaders to support ongoing efforts by providing credible intelligence and mobilising local residents against criminal elements. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between government, security agencies, and citizens.
As part of the resolutions reached, hunters, local vigilantes, Amotekun operatives, and other security outfits were directed to intensify patrols in forests, border communities, and remote areas that could serve as hideouts for kidnappers and other criminal groups. Security agencies were also urged to improve information sharing and rapid response mechanisms.
The stakeholders expressed confidence that the coordinated approach would help deter criminal activities and reassure parents, teachers, and residents of the government’s determination to maintain peace and security throughout Osun State. They further called on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to relevant authorities.
The renewed security mobilisation comes amid heightened concerns over attacks on schools and communities in some parts of Nigeria, prompting several states to adopt preventive measures to forestall security breaches and protect residents.
Fresh details have emerged regarding the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the kidnappers are reportedly demanding sophisticated weapons, a huge ransom, and the concession of a portion of land within the council area as conditions for releasing their captives.
According to information gathered by Oduduwa News, the terrorists responsible for the abduction have established contact with the Oyo State Government. However, efforts to secure the release of the victims are said to be difficult due to what officials described as outrageous and unacceptable demands by the abductors.
The shocking revelation was made by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, during plenary proceedings at the Assembly on Wednesday. The Speaker disclosed that negotiating with the kidnappers would embolden them because their conditions extend beyond monetary demands.
Ogundoyin explained that the abductors are requesting a large cache of sophisticated weapons, a substantial amount of money, and the concession of part of Oyo State territorial land, demands which the government is unwilling and unable to meet.
He assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is intensifying efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils without compromising the security and territorial integrity of the state.
The Speaker urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing rescue operations. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to ensuring the safe return of all victims and tackling the growing security challenges confronting parts of the state.
The abduction has continued to generate widespread concern among residents, parents, and stakeholders, with many calling for urgent and decisive action to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Oyo State.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging for their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, which occurred on June 5, 2022, during a Pentecost Sunday service. The attack, one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Nigeria’s recent history, claimed the lives of more than 40 worshippers and left over 100 others injured.
Delivering judgment, Justice Emeka Nwite found the defendants guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges, including terrorism financing, kidnapping, hostage-taking, conspiracy, and the use of explosives that resulted in deaths and injuries. The convicted men were identified as Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris.
The court heard that the convicts participated in planning and executing the attack, allegedly operating from a terrorist cell in Kogi State. Prosecutors presented witness testimonies, confessional statements, and forensic evidence linking the defendants to the massacre. A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted after the court ruled that there was insufficient evidence to connect him to the crime.
In addition to the death sentence, the four convicts were also handed life imprisonment terms for membership of a terrorist organization and 20 years imprisonment each for conspiracy. The judgment is being viewed as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to prosecute terrorism-related crimes and deliver justice to victims of violent attacks.
The Owo church attack shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation from local and international communities. Worshippers were attending Mass at the church when gunmen and explosives struck, turning a religious celebration into a tragedy that left families devastated and the entire Owo community in mourning.
The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement has raised concerns over what it describes as external interference in the Accord Party’s presidential nomination process, insisting that Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains the party’s duly elected candidate for the 2027 general elections.
The group said recent statements by sections of the Accord Party leadership disputing Hashim’s emergence were “unfounded and contrary to documented facts and democratic procedures already concluded within the party.”
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the movement maintained that Hashim’s emergence as presidential candidate was the outcome of a legitimate internal process involving party members across the country.
It stated that his participation followed a formal invitation by the Accord Party national leadership, after which he joined the party in March 2026 following consultations on strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
The group added that Hashim subsequently mobilised nationwide support, contributed resources to party development, and participated fully in activities leading to the presidential primary.
According to the statement, the party leadership had repeatedly assured Hashim that Accord would field a presidential candidate in line with the Electoral Act and internal party guidelines.
It also referenced tensions reportedly linked to political statements and alignments outside the party structure, including comments attributed to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke regarding support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC.
The movement further alleged that external political interests attempted to influence the party’s decision-making process ahead of the presidential primary, claiming such pressure was aimed at preventing Accord from presenting a candidate in the 2027 elections. The movement urged party members and the public to remain calm.
The group argues that what is happening in the Accord Party is not an isolated incident.
ADC has also witnessed factional disputes over its presidential ticket, with multiple claimants emerging from rival party structures
The PDP has similarly experienced disputes over its presidential nomination process, with rival factions presenting different positions regarding the party’s candidate.
The Labour Party, like the ADC and PDP, also has multiple claims.
Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement noted that virtually all political parties in Nigeria where strong candidates have featured have at least two parallel candidates, or the emergence of any serious candidate is sabotaged by agents of the incumbent government, consistent with a plan to ensure that no viable candidate competes with the incumbent.
The group said Dr. Hashim remains committed to democratic principles and national unity, adding that he continues to focus on offering credible leadership alternatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.
