KISHI/IGBETI — A fresh bandit ambush along the Kishi-Igbeti road in Oyo State has left one person shot dead, triggering widespread outrage and urgent demands for immediate government intervention to secure the route.

​The brazen attack, which occurred late Friday, June 12, 2026, has further amplified regional anxieties that the vast Old Oyo National Park and its adjoining forest reserves are rapidly transforming into a fortified stronghold for bandits and kidnapping syndicates.

​During the incident, armed men operating from the forest cover opened fire on a traveling vehicle. Tragically, the gunfire resulted in the immediate death of an electricity distribution worker, widely identified by locals as Mr. Kayode, a staff member of the regional electricity company (popularly referred to as NEPA) while others are severely injured.

​Initial reports that filtered into the Igbeti community around 9:30 p.m. on Friday suggested that the targeted vehicle was returning from picking up a pilgrim who had just concluded the 2026 Hajj exercise. Oluwaseun, a presenter with the Igbeti-based local news outlet, Oloye Radio/TV, shared this account while confirming the death of the utility worker.

​However, Ayemu, a presenter from Irepo Radio in the neighboring town of Kishi, provided a cautious update. Ayemu stated that he could not independently verify if the occupants of the vehicle were indeed Hajj returnees, though he fully corroborated the report that Mr. Kayode was shot dead in the attack.

​The recurring violence along the Kishi-Igbeti corridor has led people to point to a direct link between the deteriorating security climate and unregulated economic sabotage, particularly illegal mining.

​”In my opinion, the recurring cases of kidnapping and insecurity along the Igbeti-Kishi axis of Old Oyo National Park are alarming and require urgent government intervention,” Oluwaseun of Oloye Radio/TV noted. “The abduction of four people earlier this year and recent incidents indicate a growing security threat in the area. Government should also put a stop to illegal mining activities around the axis, as they may be contributing to the insecurity. Strengthening security presence and monitoring the area closely is now essential.”

​This latest ambush is part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks plaguing the region, indicating a severe security crisis surrounding the Old Oyo National Park:

​January 2026 Rangers Massacre: The sheer vulnerability of the park was brutally exposed earlier this year on January 6, 2026, when heavily armed bandits launched a coordinated nighttime assault on the National Park Service outpost in Oloka village. The devastating raid claimed the lives of five forest guards and was reportedly carried out to forcefully free suspected criminals detained by the rangers, underscoring the audacity of the gangs operating within the forest.

​March 2026 Abductions: Early in March 2026, four individuals were abducted by gunmen along this exact road, an incident that served as an early warning of the growing vulnerability of the route.

​Orire LGA Kidnappings: The severity of the crisis was recently underscored when the Governor of Oyo State officially confirmed that abducted schoolchildren and teachers from the Orire Local Government Area are currently being held hostage deep within the Old Oyo National Park.

​Following Friday’s fatal attack, residents across the Kishi-Igbeti axis are making demands from both state and federal governments. They are demanding immediate, sustained tactical military and police deployments to clear the forest reserves of criminal elements who are utilizing the vast terrain as a base for their operations.

Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo, who passed away at the age of 80.

Dr. Oyewo, widely celebrated for his unforgettable role in the acclaimed Nigerian film Saworoide, was regarded as one of the pioneers of contemporary Nigerian theatre and a respected figure in the country’s cultural and academic circles.

The news of his death was announced on Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who paid glowing tribute to the late theatre icon for his immense contributions to the growth of theatre arts and filmmaking in Nigeria.

Over the course of a distinguished career spanning several decades, Oyewo earned admiration for his outstanding performances on stage and screen, as well as his commitment to mentoring younger generations of actors. His work helped shape the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry and inspired countless practitioners across the country.

Beyond acting, the late thespian was also known for his scholarly contributions to theatre studies, combining academic excellence with artistic creativity throughout his lifetime.

His portrayal in Saworoide, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated political drama films, remains one of his most enduring legacies and cemented his status as a household name among movie lovers.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans, and cultural stakeholders, who described him as a gifted performer, dedicated educator, and a towering figure in Nigerian theatre.

Dr. Kola Oyewo’s passing marks the end of an era for the Nigerian creative industry, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to influence generations of actors, filmmakers, and scholars.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Member representing Ibarapa East State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has concluded a 3day constituency wide engagement, consultation and stewardship tour across Eruwa and Lanlate, where he highlighted achievements of the Oyo State Government, unveiled the Allied People’s Movement (APM) to constituents, and empowered party faithful.

The extensive engagement, which ran from Wednesday to Friday, provided the Speaker an opportunity to meet with key stakeholders, traditional institutions, political leaders, elders, grassroots supporters and transport unions across the constituency.

The consultation tour formed part of efforts to strengthen political participation, deepen grassroots engagement and update constituents on ongoing government projects and development initiatives affecting Ibarapa East.

During the three-day exercise, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin held separate meetings with the Councils of Elders in Eruwa and Lanlate towns, consulted with party stalwarts and local political leaders, visited members of the Park Management System in both towns and paid homage to the Onilala of Lanlate as part of continuous engagement with traditional institutions.

A major highlight of the programme was the empowerment of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) executives in the constituency.

The Speaker presented cash gifts of N50,000 each to 120 former local government party executives drawn from the ten wards in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, with 12 beneficiaries selected from each ward.

In addition, four loyal party members were presented with brand-new motorcycles in recognition of their dedication, commitment and unwavering support to the party over the years.

Addressing constituents at various engagements, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin formally introduced the Allied People’s Movement (APM), the new political platform of the ruling government in Oyo State, to the people of Ibarapa East, and informed residents that he would be contesting the 2027 House of Assembly election under the platform of the new party.

He urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to the ideals of good governance, noting that the progress recorded by the present administration in Oyo State must be sustained.

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin also used the consultations to give an account of his stewardship as a lawmaker and to highlight major projects and programmes of the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde.

Among the development projects announced by the Speaker was the approval of two major road rehabilitation projects in Lanlate by the state government.

According to him, the projects include the rehabilitation of the Ipa–First Baptist–Old Garage–Itabo Road and the Agasha–Bioku Grammar School–Olorunsogo Road, both of which are expected to improve transportation, enhance economic activities and ease movement within the community.

The Speaker assured residents that the state government remained committed to equitable development across all parts of Oyo State, including rural communities in Ibarapa East.

The consultations attracted several prominent APM leaders and stakeholders in the constituency, including Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Hon. Moses Ojoawo, Hon. Dimeji Oladapo, Prince Biodun Labiyi, Prince Wole Opadeye, Alhaji Ganiyu Aderibigbe, Chairman of Ibarapa East Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Arogundade, Hon. Kunle Olalowo, Hon. Gbenga Obalowo, Alhaji Sikiru Adebisi, Hon. Debodun Adepoju and Alhaji Akeem Akintola, popularly known as Kuso, among other political functionaries and ward executives.

In Lanlate, members of the Elders Council who participated in the engagement included the Chairman of the Council, Chief Agbo Adeyemo, Chief Timothy Jolaosho, Chief Sunday Abegunde and other respected community leaders.

Similarly, the Eruwa Council of Elders meeting was led by its Chairman, Elder Samuel Oladeni, alongside notable members including Chief T.A. Fadairo, Chief J.A. Peluola, Deacon Sunday Samuel, Pastor Opakunle, Mrs. Lawal, Chief Isiaka Abolade and Deacon Bimbo Olaniyan.

Stakeholders who attended the various meetings commended the Speaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and for continuously providing updates on government policies, projects and programmes affecting the people of Ibarapa East.

Leaders, stakeholders, and longstanding members of the Accord Party in Osun State, including executives who were in the party long before Governor Ademola Adeleke joined its ranks, on Wednesday reaffirmed their support for Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, insisting that no external influence can override the will of party members.

The declaration was made at a rally in Osogbo attended by party leaders, women groups, youth supporters, and grassroots members from across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the party, Daniel Adedayo said the gathering was convened to formally reaffirm Olawepo-Hashim’s mandate and send a clear message that Accord members in Osun remain firmly behind his presidential aspiration.

According to him, Olawepo-Hashim possesses the vision, experience, and national appeal required to provide the leadership Nigeria needs at this critical moment.

“Our gathering here today is to reaffirm our support for Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate. He is the man Nigerians are waiting for, and we are ready to stand with him all the way,” Adedayo said.

The party leaders rejected suggestions that support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid in the August 15 governorship election should translate into abandoning the party’s presidential ambition.

“Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains our presidential candidate. Nobody can trade away a mandate freely given by party members. The governorship election and the presidential election are separate matters,” Adedayo declared.

Also speaking, the party’s Women Leader, Rukayat Olanrewaju, described Olawepo-Hashim’s emergence as a reflection of the confidence party members have in his leadership, integrity, and vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria.

She said party members in Osun State remain resolute in their support for his candidacy and would continue to mobilise grassroots support for his campaign ahead of the 2027 election.

Hundreds of supporters waved banners and placards in support of Olawepo-Hashim, chanting slogans and declaring their loyalty to what they described as the party’s authentic presidential mandate.

The stakeholders urged the national leadership of the party to respect the wishes of members and uphold the principles of internal democracy, insisting that the mandate given to Olawepo-Hashim cannot be negotiated, substituted, or surrendered to external political interests.

The rally comes amid ongoing controversy over the Accord Party’s presidential nomination process, with supporters maintaining that Olawepo-Hashim remains the validly elected and widely accepted choice of party members across the country.

IBADAN – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the state government and security agencies are working relentlessly to secure the safe release of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

In a message addressed to the people of Oyo State, the governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety caused by the prolonged captivity of the victims, noting that 27 days had passed since they were taken by their abductors.

Makinde said he understood that repeated assurances from the government might seem inadequate in the absence of visible results but stressed that every available lawful measure was being pursued to ensure the victims return home safely.

He explained that while operational details could not be disclosed for security reasons, authorities continued to follow every credible lead and remained committed to achieving a successful rescue.

The governor disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the abducted children and teachers were still within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning parts of 10 local government areas and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.

According to him, the difficult terrain and expansive nature of the area have made rescue operations particularly challenging, requiring patience, coordination and sustained efforts by security personnel.

Makinde appealed to residents across the state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, which operates around the clock.

He also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts, encouraging them instead to rely on official updates.

The governor expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, assuring them that their loved ones had not been forgotten and remained the government’s top priority.

He further called on residents to continue praying for the safe return of the abducted children and teachers while supporting security agencies in their efforts to bring the ordeal to a successful conclusion.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has directed police commands across Nigeria to immediately intensify enforcement against vehicles operating without valid registration number plates or with concealed, altered, defaced, or otherwise obscured plates.

According to the IGP, the increasing number of vehicles on Nigerian roads without proper identification poses a serious threat to public safety and national security. He noted that criminals often exploit unregistered or disguised vehicles to evade detection while carrying out offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.

Under the directive, Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and Heads of Formations nationwide have been instructed to stop and impound any vehicle found without approved registration plates or with tampered identification marks. Such vehicles and their owners are expected to face appropriate legal procedures in line with existing laws.

The police leadership emphasized that displaying a valid number plate is a legal requirement and an important tool for crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and effective law enforcement. The IGP warned that the new enforcement campaign would apply equally to all motorists, with no exemptions or preferential treatment.

The Nigeria Police Force also urged vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and that their number plates remain clearly visible and untampered to avoid sanctions during the nationwide operation.

The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), alongside several civil society organisations and community groups, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over what they describe as the slow pace of efforts to rescue more than 40 students and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State.

The criticism comes weeks after gunmen attacked schools in the Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping dozens of pupils and seven teachers. The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents, labour unions, and residents, with calls intensifying for urgent government intervention.

At a public demonstration, OPC members and civil society activists accused both the federal and state governments of failing to act swiftly enough to secure the victims’ freedom. Protesters urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and demanded greater transparency regarding the progress of efforts to locate the abductees.

The prolonged captivity of the victims has also triggered industrial action. The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers declared an indefinite strike across public primary and secondary schools, arguing that teachers and pupils cannot continue learning under such conditions of insecurity.

Governor Makinde has appealed for patience and support, stating that the federal, state, and local governments are collaborating with security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers. He has urged the public to avoid assigning blame while rescue efforts continue and reiterated that the safety of residents remains a priority.

The mass abduction has renewed national debate over insecurity in Nigeria and increased pressure on authorities to strengthen the protection of schools and vulnerable communities. Parents, unions, and advocacy groups continue to call for the immediate and safe release of all those still being held captive.

Organised labour, civil society leaders, politicians, youth groups, women leaders, and pro-democracy advocates on Wednesday joined forces with Accord Party presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, as the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR) was formally launched in Abuja.

The event drew hundreds of participants from across the country, united by a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and expanding citizen participation.

Speaking on behalf of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, the Chairman of the NLC FCT Council, Dr. Steven Nabayi, said organised labour was working with Hashim because of his credibility, integrity, and long standing commitment to democratic practice in Nigeria.

He said Labour recognised him as a partner in advancing democratic values and protecting workers’ interests.

“We actually need such a movement because things are not going the right way in the country.

Nigerians need good governance, and wherever we see initiatives to promote good governance, we are part of it,” Nabayi said.

The launch featured labour leaders, civil society representatives, youth organisations, women groups, and political stakeholders who pledged support for democratic renewal and national development.

Addressing the gathering, Hashim said the Movement for Democratic Renewal was established to defend democracy, strengthen institutions, and ensure governance remains responsive to ordinary Nigerians.

He commended workers, youth groups, women leaders, and civil society actors for their commitment to democratic values and nation-building.

“Our democracy should be truly representative through free and fair elections. Workers must not be left behind,” Hashim said.

He warned that rising inflation and naira depreciation were eroding workers’ earnings, noting that wage increases lose value when purchasing power continues to fall.

He proposed policies to stabilise the currency, boost productivity, expand local production, and strengthen energy security through increased domestic refining capacity.

Hashim also urged deeper collaboration between labour, civil society, and true progressive political forces, saying organised labour has always played a central role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles.

“Labour and true progressive leaders must continue to work hand in hand to protect democracy and advance the interests of the people,” he said.

He further raised concerns over insecurity, calling for stronger protection of lives and property across the country.

According to organisers, MDR is a coalition of trade unionists, political actors, civil society groups, and citizens committed to democratic inclusion, electoral integrity, social justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.

They said the movement was launched in response to concerns over shrinking civic space, weakening institutions, and declining public confidence in the electoral process.

Organisers expressed confidence that the initiative would strengthen democratic accountability and contribute to a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
Dr Gbenga Hashim and the NLC President Comrade Joe Ajero are Co- Chairmen of the Newly launched Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR).Representatives of Industrial Unions attended the Launch while the Acting General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress Comrade Denja Yaqub gave the vote of thanks.

The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) is set to celebrate ten years of uninterrupted operations, marking a significant milestone as one of Nigeria’s few civil society organizations that has operated entirely without foreign funding or external institutional backing since its establishment.

Registered in January 2016, PeacePro has spent the last decade demonstrating that locally driven organizations can survive, grow, and make meaningful contributions to peacebuilding, conflict prevention, research, and policy advocacy through indigenous resources and community support.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, PeacePro’s Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat described its ten year journey as evidence that impact is not determined by the size of an organization’s funding but by the strength of its vision, credibility, and commitment to public service.

According to Hamzat, its decade long record challenges the widespread belief that African NGOs must depend on foreign donors to remain relevant and effective.

“Over the years, PeacePro has undertaken numerous interventions aimed at preventing violence, promoting dialogue, and strengthening peaceful coexistence across Nigeria”.

In 2017, the organization played a key role in efforts that helped curtail a communal crisis in Osun State. It also intervened during a period of rising tension in Northern Nigeria following the circulation of a hate song that threatened to fuel hostility against a particular ethnic group.

The organization has further facilitated dialogue among conflicting parties, supported out of court settlements, and conducted fact finding missions in conflict prone areas, including Southern Kaduna during periods of intense farmers herders clashes.

Beyond conflict intervention, PeacePro has established itself as a notable voice in peace and security research. Through flagship initiatives such as the Nigeria Peace Index, State of Peace Report, and Africa Peace Insight, the organization has generated data, analysis, and policy recommendations on peace and security trends in Nigeria and across the African continent.

The organization has also led several advocacy campaigns, most notably its campaign for the demilitarization of Africa and slavery accountability by countries and organizations who made gains or inherited gains of slavery. Through research, public engagement, and policy advocacy, PeacePro has consistently argued for governance driven and people centred approaches to peace and security, while advocating reduced dependence on military solutions and foreign security arrangements.

As it enters its second decade, PeacePro says it remains committed to advancing peacebuilding, strengthening democratic values, promoting social cohesion, and supporting sustainable development across Africa.

Hamzat noted that its greatest achievement over the last ten years is not merely the projects it has implemented or the reports it has published, but its success in proving that an independent African institution can sustain itself, maintain its voice, and make a measurable impact without foreign funding.

For PeacePro, the tenth anniversary represents more than a celebration of longevity. It is a testament to the capacity of indigenous organizations to build resilient institutions, influence public discourse, and contribute to national and continental development through local initiative and local ownership.

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has criticized the borrowing profile of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that the current government has accumulated more debt in three years than the immediate past administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari did in eight years.

Obi made the assertion while expressing concerns over Nigeria’s rising debt burden and its implications for economic growth, fiscal sustainability, and the welfare of citizens.

According to the former Anambra State governor, the Tinubu administration has engaged in what he described as “remarkably imprudent borrowing,” leading to a significant increase in the country’s public debt stock within a relatively short period.

He argued that while borrowing is not inherently bad, loans should be tied to productive investments capable of stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, boosting exports, and improving the living standards of Nigerians.

Obi maintained that the continuous accumulation of debt without corresponding improvements in critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and manufacturing raises concerns about the country’s fiscal future.

The Labour Party chieftain called on the federal government to prioritize prudent management of public resources, reduce wasteful spending, and channel borrowed funds into projects that would yield measurable economic returns.

He further urged policymakers to focus on increasing productivity, supporting local industries, and expanding the nation’s revenue base rather than relying heavily on borrowing to finance government operations.

Obi’s comments come amid ongoing debates over Nigeria’s debt profile and the sustainability of the country’s fiscal policies, with economists and financial experts continuing to weigh in on the government’s borrowing strategy and its impact on future generations.

As of recent years, Nigeria’s public debt has continued to rise due to a combination of domestic and external borrowings aimed at funding budget deficits, infrastructure projects, and other government obligations.

The Federal Government has, however, consistently defended its borrowing strategy, arguing that the loans are necessary to finance development projects, stimulate economic growth, and address critical infrastructure gaps across the country.